$24 per ton for Rostov – Marmara seems to be the maximum for December even despite the abnormally high activity in adjacent cargoes like coal and steels. There are statements for even $25 in this direction but it is not so widely spread practice for cargoes, which are placed before the bridge, Rufco shipbrokers note. Shippers who can afford waiting are presently trying to benefit from January dates, when rates will definitely go down.
Interestingly, the Russian Azov Sea ports (including Kavkaz roads) lost 32% (6 mn tons) of grain handling volume in comparison with January-November 2018.
Freight rates to the Sea of Marmara make $23-24 pmt from Rostov and $22-23 pmt from Yeisk.
Freight rates to SE Black Sea ports are $21-22 pmt from Rostov and $20-21 pmt from Yeisk.
The Black sea is also trying to rise. The Sulphur cap 2020 could stimulate further growth here in January but it could hardly be substantial as the majority of coasters are already using MGO to face the Convention implementation.
In the Caspian, Makhachkala is taking the leading position ahead of Astrakhan due to truck congestion issues. Generally, the Caspian region is quite stable, the rates for Makhachkala port are rising but Astrakhan has lost a dollar since last week.
Freight ex Astrakhan to Iran make $38-40 pmt this week.
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.