Iran sanctions: A win/win scenario?
However, as the Iran talks proceed, the tanker market may benefit Ongoing discussions between the US and Iran have raised the possibility of easing sanctions on Iranian crude. Regardless of the outcome, the tanker market is positioned to benefit. As noted by Alexander Saverys, CEO of Belgium’s CMB Group: “So actually, the Iran story, in […]
The tanker market remains healthy
No news is good news: Steady market conditions persist this week The past week has been steady, with no major developments in earnings to report. The tanker market continues to perform strongly, with average crude tanker earnings now exceeding $55,000 per day, supported by firmer VLCC market conditions. According to Fearnleys, spot rates for modern […]
Successful 800m³ ammonia transfer in Rotterdam
Bunkering pilot marks another milestone for the VLAC segment The Port of Rotterdam has successfully completed its first ammonia bunkering pilot, transferring 800m³ of ammonia between two vessels, safely and without emissions. This is a key milestone in preparing major ports for ammonia as a marine fuel and a strong signal for the future of […]
US fees on Chinese shipping – explained!
Revised port fee proposal has limited impact on most segments Last week, the United States Trade Representative released a revised US port fee proposal targeting Chinese-built and operated vessels. This updated version takes a more moderate approach and should have a limited impact on Chinese-built or-owned tankers, bulkers, and LPG carriers. Key exemptions like ships […]
Crude market strong despite Easter lull
Further, US sanctions on Iran boosting large crude tankers Last week was relatively quiet for the tanker market, partly due to the Easter holidays and the four-day break. Despite the lull, the crude segment remains strong. Modern, scrubber-fitted Suezmax rates averaged around $65,000 per day, the highest level so far in 2025. Aframax rates followed […]
Car sales rebounded in March
Caution still remains, however, as tariffs loom large Global car sales rose 8% year-on-year in March, with substantial contributions from the UK, Japan, and the US. The rebound follows several weak months and reflects the typical seasonal boost in March. While the return to growth is encouraging, whether this signals a lasting trend remains to […]
Another boost for green shipping
IMO signs crucial 2050 net-zero agreement Last week, the International Maritime Association (IMO) reached a major milestone: a global industry is legally required to cut its greenhouse gas emissions for the first time. The new climate agreement, signed by most IMO member states, sets a binding course for the shipping sector to become net zero […]
A volatile week of ups and downs
Tariffs create uncertainty – tanker market remains strong Tanker market conditions remain healthy, with average crude tanker earnings rising above $53,000 per day for the first time in 11 months. The gain was driven by further strength in Suezmax and Aframax rates. Meanwhile, product tanker earnings eased by 8% week-on-week to $22,007 per day, as […]
Trump’s “Liberation Day” and its impact
How will the US tariff spree affect the shipping market? The US has unveiled a new wave of tariffs aimed at reshaping global trade flows. A standard 10% duty will apply to all imports, with steeper rates targeting countries with the most significant trade imbalances – including China at 34%, the EU at 20%, and […]
Massive OPEC+ output increase announced
Production cuts rolled back, boosting the tanker market OPEC+ caught the market by surprise this week, announcing a production increase of 411,000 barrels per day for May – much higher than the expected 135,000 bpd. The group is accelerating its plan to unwind earlier production cuts, responding to stronger demand and potential supply risks from […]
