Matson Navigation Co. is boosting its fuel surcharge for shipments between Hawaii and the mainland by five percentage points effective Feb. 26.

The hike to 45.5 percent from 40.5 percent follows three consecutive decreases totaling seven percentage points from August through October.

The state’s largest ocean shipper said bunker fuel prices have risen more than 16 percent since its last fuel surcharge adjustment.

"While we were encouraged by the moderation of bunker fuel prices in the second half of 2011, that trend has been reversed in recent months," said Dave Hoppes, senior vice president of ocean services, in a statement. "Matson recognizes that energy costs are a major concern for all businesses, as well as consumers. Unfortunately, transportation companies are especially hard hit, with fuel consumption an unavoidable and significant component of operating costs."