In the Azov market, local Russian grain prices are almost giving no chances for export activity. Grain cargo flow via Azov and Black Sea ports is decreasing and so are freight levels. Steel and coal shipments are quite rare and do not support owners in the present market conditions.
According to Rufco shipbrokers, some shippers intend to stop their trading activities until the new season, especially bearing in mind the forthcoming prolonged holidays in May. A number of owners have the same attitude and plan dry-docking and maintenance works for May and June.
Meanwhile, hopes for the new harvest are quite promising and there are voices that it could potentially exceed the year 2017 figures.
Freight rates to the Sea of Marmara from Rostov make $16.5-17.5 per ton.
Freight rates from Rostov to SE Black Sea ports are $14.5-15.5 per ton.
In the Caspian, rates ex Astrakhan remain intact. The overall activity is much greater than in the Sea of Azov region. That is the reason why a number of vessels are already planned to join the Caspian Sea fleet by the end of April – early May dates. This could potentially lower freight levels in the region.
The current freight rates from Astrakhan to Iran make $30-31 per ton.
Please note that the rates cited in this article are average market rates. We ask our readers to pay attention that this information is not a commercial offer and cannot be an example for comparison in commercial disputes and arbitration.