Freight News, Sea

AAL to sail monthly between Americas and Asia

[ February 18, 2021   //   Chris ]

AAL Shipping (AAL) is committing to a monthly sailing on its breakbulk liner service between Asia and the Americas.

General manager of AAL Americas, Michael Morland, explained: “Building the market to justify regular monthly multipurpose (MPP) tramp sailings has taken time and hard work. Looking back a few years, volumes could not be relied on and we saw long-standing players pull out. We do not take our recent success for granted and are pleased with how well the market has taken to our service integrity. Our local market knowledge and presence – both in the USA and Asia – coupled with a fleet well-suited for the trade allows for continued commitment and optimism.”

AAL’s fleet comprises various sizes of heavy lift MPP vessels, that offer cargo intake of up to 40,000 cubic metres and heavy lift of 700 tonnes max, with two thirds of its vessels in the ‘mega size’ MPV segment (30,000+ DWT).

AAL foresees that President Biden’s administration will continue a strict line on trade with China but anticipates a more constructive dialogue that will lead to increased trade volumes between the two superpowers. The carrier also forecasts increased cargo volumes to South America.

Morland added; “As our service from Asia enters through the Panama Canal, we are seeing increased inquiries to the North of South America and Central America. The deviation to discharge in these ports is not necessarily big, so we can be competitive when there are cargoes suitable. There are signs of investment in oil and gas, infrastructure, and renewables, so we are in the perfect position to increase our fleet deployment into the region given the right opportunity.”

Tags: AAL Shipping