Dry Bulk Shipping Market Forecasts to 2030 - Global Analysis By Vessel Type (Conventional Bulkers, Combined Bulk Carriers, Gearless Bulk Carriers, Self-dischargers, Bulker Lakers and Other Vessel Types), Vessel Size, Commodity, End User and By Geography

According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Dry Bulk Shipping Market is accounted for $4.42 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach $6.68 billion by 2030 growing at a CAGR of 6.1% during the forecast period. Dry bulk shipping involves the transportation of unpackaged, homogeneous cargo commodities, such as coal, iron ore, grains, and cement, in large quantities. It plays a crucial role in global trade, supporting industries like construction, manufacturing, and agriculture. Specialized vessels called bulk carriers are employed for this purpose, with varying sizes and designs optimized for different types of cargo.

According to World Steel Association 2021 report, steel demand in Asia is expected to continue growing by 3-5% in 2024, supporting steel exports from China, Japan, and Korea.

Market Dynamics:

Driver:

Global economic growth

Economic expansion, particularly in developing regions, escalates the demand for raw materials like coal, iron ore, and grains, necessitating their transportation via dry bulk shipping. As economies grow, there is a heightened requirement for construction materials and commodities, thereby driving the need for efficient shipping services. The correlation between economic growth and demand for dry bulk commodities underscores the vital role played by global economic conditions in shaping the trajectory of the dry bulk shipping industry.

Restraint:

Geopolitical risks

Geopolitical risks in dry bulk shipping arise from factors such as territorial disputes, sanctions, piracy, and political instability in key shipping regions. These risks can disrupt shipping routes, increase insurance premiums, and lead to delays or interruptions in cargo delivery. Such uncertainties deter investment, hinder route planning, and raise operational costs for shipping companies. Consequently, market growth is hampered as investors and stakeholders perceive higher risks associated with dry bulk shipping, leading to a cautious approach and potentially reduced trade volumes.

Opportunity:

Rising investments in infrastructure projects

Rising investments in infrastructure projects, including the construction of roads, bridges, and ports, generate demand for raw materials such as steel, cement, and aggregates, necessitating transportation through bulk carriers. As countries continue to prioritize infrastructure development to support economic growth and urbanization, the demand for dry bulk shipping services is expected to remain robust, presenting opportunities for shipping companies to capitalize on increased freight volumes.

Threat:

Volatility in commodity prices

Dry bulk shipping has direct correlation with demand. Fluctuations in global supply and demand, geopolitical tensions, weather events, and economic factors can cause rapid price changes. Sudden price drops can reduce profitability and investment incentives, leading to delays in fleet expansions and infrastructure investments. Moreover, it affects long-term planning and operational decisions, making it challenging for companies to optimize their resources efficiently, ultimately hindering market expansion.

Covid-19 Impact

The covid-19 pandemic initially disrupted the dry bulk shipping market, causing a decline in global trade and industrial activity, leading to reduced demand for commodities. Lockdown measures, fluctuating trade patterns and port restrictions further hampered shipping operations, causing logistical challenges. However, as economies gradually reopened and stimulus measures were implemented, demand for raw materials rebounded, supporting a recovery in the dry bulk shipping market.

The conventional bulkers segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period

The conventional bulkers segment is estimated to have a lucrative growth. Conventional bulkers, a cornerstone of dry bulk shipping, are vessels designed to transport unpackaged bulk cargo such as grains, coal, and ores. These ships typically feature large cargo holds and can range in size from handysize to capesize vessels. Conventional bulkers are known for their versatility and efficiency in transporting bulk commodities across the world's oceans. They remain essential in facilitating global trade and are a vital component of the maritime shipping industry.

The commodity traders segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period

The commodity traders segment is anticipated to witness the highest CAGR growth during the forecast period. Commodity traders play a vital role in this sector by buying and selling these goods globally, necessitating efficient shipping logistics. They analyze market trends, negotiate contracts, and manage risks associated with transportation costs and delivery timelines. By understanding supply and demand dynamics, commodity traders optimize shipping routes, vessel selection, and freight rates to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of goods, thereby facilitating the smooth functioning of global trade in dry bulk commodities.

Region with largest share:

The Asia-Pacific region is a vital hub for the dry bulk shipping market due to its significant role in global trade and industrial production. Countries like China, India, Japan, and South Korea are major importers and exporters of commodities like coal, iron ore, grains, and minerals. Rapid urbanization, infrastructure development and industrialization in the region drive demand for raw materials, necessitating efficient transportation via bulk carriers. Nonetheless, ongoing economic growth and trade expansion in the Asia-Pacific region continue to fuel opportunities for the dry bulk shipping industry.

Region with highest CAGR:

Europe is projected to have the highest CAGR over the forecast period. Countries like Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom being major importers and exporters. The region's advanced industrial base and extensive infrastructure drive demand for raw materials, necessitating efficient maritime transportation. Additionally, Europe exports commodities like steel and agricultural products. However, ongoing efforts towards sustainability and technological innovation present opportunities for growth in the European dry bulk shipping market.

Key players in the market

Some of the key players profiled in the Dry Bulk Shipping Market include Golden Ocean Group Limited, COSCO Shipping Corporation Limited, Star Bulk Carriers Corporation, Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha, Safe Bulkers Inc., Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Navios Maritime Holdings Inc., Genco Shipping & Trading Limited, DryShips Inc., Pacific Basin Shipping Limited, Oldendorff Carriers, Diana Shipping Inc., Eagle Bulk Shipping Inc., Thoresen Thai Agencies, U-Ming Marine Transport Corporation and Baltic & International Maritime Council (BIMCO).

Key Developments:

In June 2023, Golden Ocean Group (GOGL) announced that it had entered into agreements to acquire 16 modern dry bulk vessels in an all-share transaction valued at $412 million. Growing its fleet enables GOGL to compete more effectively in the dry bulk shipping market, potentially attracting new business and strengthening its relationships with existing customers.

In January 2023, MOL and Mitsui announced that they had acquired an approval in principle (AiP) for a large ammonia-powered bulk carrier. The 210,000-dwt capesize bulker is a joint development between Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL) and Mitsui. MOL and Mitsui have also jointly determined the ship's size and specifications.

Vessel Types Covered:

• Conventional Bulkers
• Combined Bulk Carriers
• Gearless Bulk Carriers
• Self-dischargers
• Bulker Lakers
• Other Vessel Types

Vessel Sizes Covered:

• Capsize
• Panamax
• Handymax
• Supramax
• Ultramax
• Other Vessel Sizes

Commodities Covered:

• Coal
• Iron Ore
• Grains
• Bauxite & Alumina
• Steel Products
• Other Commodities

End Users Covered:

• Commodity Traders
• Mining Companies
• Agricultural Producers
• Construction Companies
• Other End Users

Regions Covered:

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • Italy
  • France
  • Spain
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • Japan
  • China
  • India
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • South Korea
  • Rest of Asia Pacific
• South America
  • Argentina
  • Brazil
  • Chile
  • Rest of South America
• Middle East & Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • Qatar
  • South Africa
  • Rest of Middle East & Africa

What our report offers:

• Market share assessments for the regional and country-level segments
• Strategic recommendations for the new entrants
• Covers Market data for the years 2021, 2022, 2023, 2026, and 2030
• Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)
• Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations
• Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends
• Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments
• Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements

Free Customization Offerings:

All the customers of this report will be entitled to receive one of the following free customization options:

• Company Profiling
  • Comprehensive profiling of additional market players (up to 3)
  • SWOT Analysis of key players (up to 3)
• Regional Segmentation
  • Market estimations, Forecasts and CAGR of any prominent country as per the client's interest (Note: Depends on feasibility check)
• Competitive Benchmarking
  • Benchmarking of key players based on product portfolio, geographical presence, and strategic alliances