Spot and term charter rates for LNG carriers have launched sharply upwards earlier in the year than might normally be expected as nerves are set jangling over the impact on supply from the threat of industrial action in Australia.
Owners and brokers said there are few firm fixtures being concluded to illustrate the market sentiment.
Shipbroker Braemar said that for those with prompt LNG carrier tonnage there is “little interest” in fixing at present, pointing to the relatively long tonnage lists for vessels that are immediately open with owners and operators preferring to hold for anticipated rate rises.
