News / More pressure on box ship charter rates, but MPVs sail smoother

© Mr.siwabud Veerapaisarn

Having lost about 80% of their daily hire rate values last year, the containership charter market has now stabilised – but the outlook for the sector remains decidedly uncertain.

Charterers appear to be waiting for better demand visibility after the Chinese New Year holiday, which begins on 22 January, before reassessing their network requirements.

Brokers have reported a number of new enquiries for ships that are becoming open, but these are mostly for short periods and at rate ideas considerably below owner ...