International shipping companies operating between the Far East, the Gulf and Europe have increased their freight charges by 5-10 per cent. The 13 signatories to the Japan Persian Gulf Rate Agreement (Jappercon) have increased their rates by $150 a 20-foot equivalent unit (TEU). The 15 signatories to the European Middle East Rate Agreement (EMERA) have increased their rates by $50 a TEU (MEED 23:9:94). EMERA said that its increase will apply until March 1995.