On the 39th week, the level of freight rates continues to decresase in the Azov-Black Sea region. Thus, the rate for a shipment of 3,000 tons of wheat from Azov to the ports of the Marmara Sea is at the level of $ 40 per ton. This week, the conclusion of contracts for the purchase of wheat by Turkish buyers was almost completely suspended. This is due, among other things, to the expectation of the abolition of import fees on a number of grain products in Turkey, which will come into force from the beginning of October. Shipments to far destinations are also not in great demand. Among the main goods exported this week figure corn, bran and peas.
In such conditions, a large number of spot vessels appear in the Azov-Black Sea region, which accelerates the fall in freight rates. Nevertheless, it is difficult to say with certainty that this rather rapid decline will continue, since in the coming week weather conditions in the ports of Azov and Rostov are expected to become more complicated, with a decrease of the water level, which may lead to a delay in loading. In addition, from October 1, trade with Turkish partners is expected to intensify after the abolition of import fees in the country.
In the Baltic region, there is uncertainty due to cargo readiness shipped with delays by railway. For grain cargoes, charterers are looking for vessels a month in advance.
The situation is complicated by the absence of small-tonnage vessels in spot positions. The main fleet is concentrated near ARAG and England, which increases the average freight cost in region. Trends are expected until the end of October.
In the Caspian region vessels are opening more actively, but prices are remain at the level of the last week. As an example, 3000 tons grain shipment from Astrakhan to the northern ports of Iran is $37 per ton.