India’s three-week coronavirus lockdown threatens to play havoc with the regional chemical tanker market, Singapore broker Eastport Maritime warns.

Bulk liquid chemical and palm oil imports could be hurt by slowing demand, plant shutdowns, logistical constraints and rising port inefficiencies.

“India shipped over 9m tonnes of palm oil last year, making it the world’s largest importer by a large margin,” said Andrew Shipley, head of strategy at Eastport.