- Higher ballast demand supports Atlantic rates despite weak cargo interest
- Muted cargo enquiries, ample tonnage availability temper Pacific sentiment
India’s dry bulk coal freight market exhibited mixed trends in the week ended 16 June 2026. Atlantic routes remained supported by tight prompt vessel availability and rising ballast movements, while the Pacific market stayed subdued amid limited cargo enquiries and ample tonnage availability.
The Panamax market remained cautious amid limited cargo enquiries, ample tonnage availability, and subdued trading activity. Market participants also continued to monitor the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, although its impact on regional freight remained limited.
A shipbroker said, “The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz has so far had only a limited impact on freight sentiment. Vessel hire remains largely unchanged, and with cargo activity still limited, it is too early to assess the market’s direction.”
Another broker echoed the cautious mood, saying, “The market is quite slow, with not many cargoes. The market is yet to adapt following the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.”
Route-wise update
In the Atlantic, tight vessel availability continued to support freight sentiment despite sluggish coal demand. A shipbroker noted, “Coal market is sluggish. Not much demand for South African coal,” suggesting that constrained vessel supply is helping offset weak buying interest.
Meanwhile, the Supramax segment remained relatively stable, with limited vessel availability in the Indian Ocean cushioning the impact of quiet trading. Another market source added, “The position is still not clear, and we will have to wait for a couple of days,” reflecting the wait-and-watch approach adopted by both owners and charterers.
Outlook
Coal freight rates to India are expected to remain mixed in the near term. Atlantic routes are likely to remain supported by tight vessel availability, while market participants continue to assess whether the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz translates into any meaningful shift in cargo flows or vessel positioning. The Supramax segment is likely to remain steady, with limited tonnage in the Indian Ocean providing support until trading activity picks up.
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