India: Coal freights remain firm w-o-w as Indonesia-linked Supramax leads gains

• Australian Panamax supported by steady coal demand 
• Indonesia-linked Supramax gains on tighter prompt tonnage

India-bound coal freight rates remained firm in the week ended 25 August 2026, with Indonesia-linked Supramax providing the strongest support, while Australian Panamax also strengthened. Fresh cargo requirements, tighter prompt tonnage and improving September enquiry supported sentiment, although activity remained selective across routes.

The broader Panamax market opened the week on a firm note, with gains across major routes. This lent support to Hay Point-Paradip, where steady Australian coal demand and stronger September enquiry encouraged owners to maintain firm rate ideas.

A shipbroker said, “September enquiry is keeping Australian Panamax sentiment firm, although actual fixing activity will be key to sustaining the momentum.”

Route-wise update

South Africa-Paradip remained largely unchanged as limited fresh fixing kept activity subdued. The route lacked a clear demand-side catalyst despite the broader improvement in Panamax sentiment.

Indonesia-linked Supramax showed stronger momentum, with East and South Kalimantan-Navlakhi supported by fresh India-bound coal requirements and tighter prompt vessel availability. Weather-related delays also affected vessel positioning, adding support to freight rates.

A shipbroker said, “Indonesia is providing better support to the Supramax market, with fresh cargo and tighter prompt tonnage helping owners hold their rate ideas.”

The broader Supramax market remained largely flat, as stronger Indonesia-linked activity was offset by softer conditions across parts of the Atlantic.

Outlook

India-bound coal freight rates may remain supported but selective over the coming week. Australian Panamax sentiment will depend on whether September enquiries translate into fresh fixtures, while Indonesia-India Supramax could continue to benefit from new cargo requirements and limited prompt tonnage. However, uneven fixing activity across regions and changes in vessel availability may limit further gains.