Reefer trade still on the rise

Recent reports published by Drewry Maritime Research and Dynamar point to better prospects in the multipurpose (MP) shipping sector in the future.

Alphaliner and Drewry Maritime Research are among analysts raising their growth forecasts for 2017. Based on trading performances to the late summer, and evidence gleaned from the market about future prospects, they expect global container trade to grow in the 5.5% to 6.6% range this year. Projections made at the end of 2016/17 suggested volumes would rise by 4% to 5%.

Transhipment activity may be slowing down as operational, commercial and fiscal factors combine to make the concept less efficient and acceptable.

Pallet-wide containers still occupy a small niche in the intra-European freight market, but their use appears to have picked up this year.

The breakbulk shipping sector is being squeezed on many fronts but there are growth opportunities.

Falling oil prices and China’s economic slowdown are holding back global growth and demand for heavy lift shipping.