MOL is on track to sell a 14-year-old MR tanker as the Tokyo-listed shipping giant continues to reduce its exposure to the product sector.

According to brokers, the 45,700-dwt Pearl Express (build 2004) is going to Middle Eastern interests for $9.5m.

A source close to the matter told TradeWinds the sale is still being negotiated, but the Japanese shipping conglomerate declined to comment.