Date: Thursday, March 24, 2005

Re:	PORT CONGESTION SURCHARGE (LOS ANGELES/LONG BEACH)

Dear NASA Member:

Further to its February 11, 2005, Trade Notice in regard to the above, TACA wishes to advise that the suspension of the Congestion Surcharge at the above ports will continue for a further period through April 30, 2005.

Monitoring of congestion related issues at these ports continues. Prior to April 30, 2005, and depending upon prevailing circumstances, an announcement will be made confirming either a further period of suspension, or the reapplication of the Congestion Surcharge (which remains published in the relevant TACA Tariff at $200 per 20ft container and $400 per 40/45ft container, effective May 1, 2005.)

This cycle of monitoring and announcements/tariff adjustments will continue on a monthly basis until further notice.

Please note carriers outside of TACA may still decide to impose the congestion surcharge in April. Will keep you posted.

The Parties to TACA are:

Atlantic Container LineAB
Hapag Lloyd Container Linie GmbH
Mediterranean Shipping Co. SA
A P Moller-Maersk Sealand
Nippon Yusen Kaisha
Orient Overseas Container Line Ltd
P&O Nedlloyd Ltd

Best regards,

North American Shippers Association (NASA)
Joan Barrett
NASA Administrator