As of mid-February, no sharp changes have been recorded on the Ukrainian freight market. Freight rates generally remain stable, although minor fluctuations are observed on certain routes, ProAgro Group reports.

According to ASAP Agri, the market remains challenging for charterers. Due to the limited availability of tonnage willing to call at Ukraine’s deep-sea ports, charterers have little leverage to push freight rates down. The situation is further complicated by war-related risks, adverse weather conditions, and disruptions to port operations caused by electricity outages.

At the same time, the supply of Handysize vessels currently appears somewhat healthier than the availability of Coaster tonnage capable of operating at deep-water ports. As a result, in certain cases charterers are able to apply moderate downward pressure on freight rates specifically within the Handysize segment.

Analysts note that the overall freight market situation for Ukraine remains fragile, and any changes in the security, energy, or weather environment may quickly affect freight rates and vessel availability.

Earlier it was reported that amid intensified attacks on port infrastructure and increasingly frequent damage to commercial vessels, more shipowners are suspending calls at the ports of Greater Odesa.