Cash buyers are reporting that demolition sale prices have breached the $600-per-ldt barrier as available vessels dwindle in the summer slowdown.

Dubai company GMS, which had earlier tipped levels to reach this "mythical" benchmark, said prices had continued their upward trajectory in the week ending 16 July.

Several unnamed tankers were reported sold at or above this level into Bangladesh, while GMS and rival cash buyer Best Oasis also quoted containerships at this level in the country.