Klaveness Combination Carriers (KCC) is quitting the caustic soda trade in Brazil as it focuses on maximising earnings.

Speaking on a conference call with analysts, the Oslo-listed company's chief executive Engebret Dahm said the Brazilian sector has underperformed since the closure of a number of US Gulf alumina refineries between 2015 and 2019.

The company has sold its oldest Cabu vessel, which was carrying both caustic soda and bulker cargoes in the region.