The forecast for tonnage involved in the coastwise carriage of US crude looks promising but some fear a sharp decline in oil prices could take a toll on freight rates in the months ahead.
Shipbrokers who track the Jones Act segment claim demand for domestic products tankers and articulated tug-barges (ATBs) is starting to slide, which has led to what one described as “a distinct surplus” of ships seeking cargoes in the US Gulf.
“With
