Andreína Trujillo.-The Venezuelan shipping sector alerted that state-owned oil holding Petróleos de Venezuela (Pdvsa) and other state-run companies owe USD 817 million to international shipping companies, a situation that could worsen shortage problems in Venezuela. The Venezuelan Shipping Association noted that debtors comprise Pdvsa, the Supply and Agricultural Services Corporation (CASA), and other public companies. The debt includes the use of 4,000 pieces of equipment owned by international companies and that have not been given back in over three months by state-run companies, AP reported. The association warned that if debts are not settled, shortage problems will increase, which could result in higher freight costs.