MOST READ: Open space adds pressure to US Gulf-to-Asia tanker shipping route

HOUSTON (ICIS)–Chemical tanker shipping activity along the US Gulf-to-Asia route continues quite muted, putting pressure on spot freight rates.

“Cargo volumes are slow to appear on the routes to Asia, and even contractual tonnage is finding the nomination process slow,” said one shipping broker.

As such, 2,000-tonne shipments were assessed $1/tonne lower at $81-83/tonne, while 5,000-tonne shipments were steady at $55-57/tonne.

“There are no outsiders on berth at this time. Some feedstock stems off US East Coast for end-May dates are being looked at, which could fill the space if needed,” said another broker.

Ethanol was seen fixed on this route, while an inquiry for methanol from Trinidad to Japan was made.