Demand for medium-range (MR) tankers in the west has been buoyed by high levels of clean products exports to Mexico and South America.
Major refiners suggest exports will remain strong through the year. But owners will also face seasonal slowdowns, keeping a lid on MR earnings.
Valero Energy reports that exports of gasoline and diesel from its US and UK refineries grew 14% in the first half of the year compared to the same period in 2016.
