The Global Future of Shipping

The purpose of this paper assess the market outlook and prospects for both the dry-bulk and liner/container markets in terms of freight and charter rates; using empirical data and analysis to address the following in an attempt to assess the future of the international sea transport industry... given the impact of the recent 2008 global recession and current/ future market circumstances; divided into the following main sections 1 The recent behaviour of and prospects for the level of demand for sea transport capacity; 2 Supply prospects, across appropriate vessel types including demolition, scrappage; newbuilding and second hand prices/ markets. 3 The unfolding demand/supply balance (identifying current/recent market circumstances \\rates prospects for 2013 and beyond; and therefore ultimately..... 5 The view of overall profitability and sustainable recovery prospects in the respective markets including the impact of environmental and legal regulations; the increased risk of piracy; decreased availability of shipping finance; the rise in insurance and other costs