Energy: Uncertain Outlook for LNG Market
June saw more enquiries than May, and more were converted into fixtures, but Drewry’s LNG freight index was stubbornly unchanged according to the latest LNG Insight. However, market sentiment remains positive as Cheniere took three vessels on mid-term charter, plus options. One vessel from Dynacom was also added to the first of the two ME-GI ships from Teekay, while Inpext also announced newbuildings for Ichthys. But sentiments were less positive in Africa, where the Nigerian Maritime Administration blocked ship movements from the Bonny Channel as its relationship with Nigeria LNG became even more tense. African supply has already suffered as North African suppliers have been facing feedstock problems.
LNG Shipping's Dream Run Over?
Drewry's latest 'LNG Insight' saw heating demand subside in major importing regions in February & cargo availablilty also tightened. Regarding cargo availability, a few unplanned shutdowns, caused a 4% decline in the LNG Freight Index. LNG shipping enjoyed a dream run during 2011 and 2012, owing largely to increasing tonne-mile demand and an almost stagnant fleet. Freight market prospects would be even brighter if fleet supply were to remain at current levels, but this will not be possible as 81 more vessels could join the fleet during 2013-15…