Chinese coal stocks reach record high as seaborne imports surge 73%

Despite China’s strategy of pursuing increased domestic coal production, which has meant that year-to-date production stands 5.8% higher than last year, its seaborne imports of coal have nevertheless surged 73% y/y so far.

Coal shipments to advanced economies down 17% so far in 2023

In the first ten months of 2023, coal shipments to advanced economies fell by 17% y/y, as demand for electricity declined and the share of electricity produced using renewable energy rose. Also slowed economic activity and high energy prices affected electricity demand.

15+15 webinar - Contratación marítima: Principales consideraciones entre el Derecho Civil y el Common Law al contratar

Obligaciones sometidas a la “debida diligencia” y una perspectiva desde el derecho civil La buena fe y su importancia práctica en el contexto del contrato Fuerza mayor y algunas diferencias

Head-haul and regional container trade volumes fall 1.5% m/m in July

Container volumes in head-haul and regional trades are the key drivers of container vessel demand, average container rates, liner operator profits, and, since 2020, port congestion. According to Container Trade Statistics, combined head-haul and regional trade volumes fell 0.4% y/y in the first half of 2022. Head-haul volumes were 1.3% lower than a year ago while regional volumes were 0.6% higher. Under normal market circumstances the peak season in key head-haul trades should lift Q3 volumes. However, recently released volume statistics indicate that there may be no peak season in 2022 but it is very likely that volumes will slow in Q4.

Coal shipments to India fall 9% as domestic mining increases

During the first nine months of 2023, coal shipments to the world’s second largest importer of seaborne coal, India, fell 9% y/y. A 12% y/y rise in domestic coal mining replaced imports and electricity production continued to rise despite lower production from hydro power.

Japan’s dry bulk imports fall 4% amid weak steel demand

Having narrowly avoided a recession in the fourth quarter of 2022, the Japanese economy appears to be recovering. However, Japan’s demand for steel remains weak and as a result, the country’s bulk imports are estimated to have fallen by 4% y/y in the first quarter of 2023.

Capesize spot rates hesitant despite 5% rise in demand

During the first five months of 2023, demand for Capesize ships increased 5% y/y while supply increased 3% y/y. Nonetheless, spot rate increases remain hesitant, largely due to concerns over China’s fragile economic recovery.

Container Shipping - Owners rush to the yards despite a distressed market

Following five weak months of demand growth (January-May), transported container volumes are finally growing on the Far East to Europe trading lane – as much as 1.9% y-o-y in the first seven months of 2013.

USA, Mississippi, Pascagoula MS - Entrance

Liner supply falls as operators reduce average sailing speed by 4%

During the COVID-19 pandemic, liner operators increased the average sailing speed by up to 4% due to strong demand and widespread port congestion. Today, the situation is very different and in the first quarter of 2023 the average sailing speed has slowed to 13.8 knots, down 4% y/y, and could drop by 10% before 2025.