North America’s Great Lakes
According to the Lake Carriers’ Association, shipments of limestone on the Great Lakes fell by 8% y/y in May 2014, from 3.55 million t to 3.3 million t. Limestone shipments from US ports contracted by 9% when compared to the corresponding month in 2013, coming in at a total of approximately 2.8 million t. Meanwhile, Canadian quarry loadings remained in line with May 2013’s volumes.
In the first five months of 2014, limestone trade reached around 4.2 million t, representing a drop of 25.3% y/y. This decline has been attributed to the heavy ice formations in March and April.
Cargo handling specialist forms new partnership
CargoFlexX B.V., which focuses on bulk handling systems for the marine and offshore industry, has expanded its network in Asia by forming a partnership with Fumar Marine Services Pte Ltd. This Singapore-based company supplies machinery, spares and repair services for the marine and shipping sector. Fumar Marine Services will represent CargoFlexX in the region, focusing the expertise of their engineers on local bulk handling systems and service projects.
Edited from various sources by Louise Fordham