Charter rates managed to hold their ground despite the market turmoil, but there are cracks appearing with Maersk seemingly pulling back from their recent charter spree with a panamax 4,400 teu fixture failing subs and the ship was reportedly retaken at a lower rate. Although some charterers are holding off requirements for the time being, market demand remains keen with open ships still able to secure firm fixtures.
The USTR 301 action announced on 17 April provided a reprieve for Chinese buil