Crew shortage concerns owners

Article Abstract:

The persistent high value of the Japanese yen over the US dollar is adversely affecting the operations of many Japanese shipping lines. Japanese shipping companies noted that Japanese seafarers have become more expensive to hire because of the high yen. They have been forced to hire foreign seafarers from Myanmar and the Philippines, who are often less skilled than their Japanese counterparts. To alleviate the problem, Japanese shipping lines are establishing training centers in the Philippines and other Asian countries to develop skilled seamen. Meanwhile, the Japanese government is considering the establishment of new ship scrapping incentives to encourage Japanese shipping lines to remove excess tonnage.

Japan, Supply and demand, Sailors

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Brighter days ahead?

Article Abstract:

Prospects appear quite bright for the bulk shipping industry despite bleak trading. Operators of large bulk carriers face the prospect of increasingly weak markets, a growing surfeit of tonnage and further regulations governing the construction of bulk carriers. Drewry Shipping Consultants has forecast, however, that the industry has reached its lowest point in 1996, and is headed towards growth in the coming years, although substantial rate increases may not be realized until 1998-99. It predicts further gains by the 21st century, especially around 2005.

Bulk Carriers ex Oil, LNG, Forecasts and trends, Bulk cargo ships

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Decline stops: owners return

Article Abstract:

Spanish shipping industry executives unanimously agree that European Union (EU) membership has been detrimental to their business. Since Spain joined the EU, the Spanish merchant fleet has suffered a steady decline in size and a general weakening among individual companies. However, some observers are optimistic about a recovery and the current indications of the industry's stabilization. The biggest complaint of the Spanish carriers concerns the EU regulatory regime, which they consider to be costly and over-centralized.

Regulation and Administration of Transportation Programs, Water Transportation Programs, Management, Spain, European Union, Transportation policy

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