Inland marine transport is on an upward trend in the Americas with rising demand, fleet utilisation, revenues and operating profits, but safety is still an issue, says an article published on riviera website.
Summary
- Inland marine transport in the Americas is experiencing growth with rising demand, fleet utilization, revenues, and operating profits, although safety concerns persist.
- South America, in particular, has seen increased demand for transporting dry bulk, containers, and liquid bulk, leading to fleet expansion efforts with new tugboats and pusher vessels, such as hybrid propulsion pusher tugs by Hidrovias do Brasil and diesel-electric pusher tugs by Uzmar Shipyard for operations along the Amazon River.
- Expansion efforts include Rio Sur Transporte y Logistica expanding its fleet with a shallow-draught tug from Concordia Damen for operations along the Paraguay River, and Kirby Corp in the US planning significant investments to maintain and improve its inland and coastal marine equipment.
- Safety concerns persist, highlighted by recent collision incidents, emphasizing the importance of effective communication and navigational practices to prevent accidents.
Growing Demand And Fleet Expansion
Inland marine transport is witnessing increased demand across the Americas, leading to a surge in fleet expansion efforts. South America, in particular, has seen rising demand for transporting dry bulk, containers, and liquid bulk, prompting owners to introduce new tugboats and pusher vessels. Notable deliveries include hybrid propulsion pusher tugs by Hidrovias do Brasil and diesel-electric pusher tugs by Uzmar Shipyard for operations along the Amazon River.
Expansion Efforts In Paraguay And Brazil
In Paraguay, Rio Sur Transporte y Logistica is expanding its fleet with a shallow-draught tug ordered from Concordia Damen. This vessel, designed for operations along the Paraguay River, highlights the region’s growing inland waterway transport sector. Additionally, Kirby Corp in the US plans significant investments to maintain and improve its inland and coastal marine equipment, reflecting the positive market outlook and demand growth.
Safety Concerns And Market Consolidation
Despite growth, safety remains a concern, as exemplified by the recent collision incident on the Mississippi River. The incident underscores the importance of effective communication and navigational practices to prevent accidents. Furthermore, corporate deals and acquisitions continue to shape the market landscape, with Centerline Logistics acquiring JMB Shipping and Maritime Partners expanding its fleet with the delivery of towboats like the Jack Nash and Jennifer Lee.
Fleet Additions And Infrastructure Development
Maritime Partners and other key players have taken delivery of new towboats, enhancing their capabilities to meet growing demand. Steiner Shipyard and Conrad Shipyard have contributed to fleet expansion efforts, delivering towboats like Kirsty Dutsch and Alice, respectively. Moreover, infrastructure development initiatives, such as the formation of Ingram Infrastructure Group, aim to strengthen supply chain solutions and support the growth of the inland marine transport sector.
Overall, the Americas’ tug and towboat sector are witnessing significant growth driven by rising demand, fleet expansion, and strategic investments, despite ongoing safety challenges and market consolidation efforts.
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Source: riviera
