The global maritime industry has observed a significant surge in seaborne salt shipments during the opening months of 2026. According to recent data from Ursa Shipbrokers and AXSMarine, global salt volumes loaded onto bulk carriers reached 13.5 million tonnes in January and February, representing a robust 19% increase compared to the 11.4 million tonnes recorded during the same period last year.
\n\nEgypt Leads Export Growth
\nWhile salt is historically classified as a minor bulk commodity, its strategic importance in the chemical industry—specifically for the production of caustic soda and chlorine—is driving steady market expansion. This year’s performance was largely underpinned by a dramatic spike in Egyptian exports. Shipments originating from key Egyptian hubs, including Alexandria, Damietta, El-Arish, Gargoub, and Port Said, reached 2.9 million tonnes, more than doubling the volumes seen in early 2025.
\n\nThe Backbone of the Geared Bulker Market
\nThe rise in salt trade has provided a welcomed boost for the geared bulker segments. The distribution of cargo across vessel types highlights the reliance on small to mid-sized bulkers:
\n- \n
- Supramax: Accounts for approximately 25% of global shipments. \n
- Handysize: Carries roughly 23% of the trade. \n
- Ultramax: Handles about 17% of volumes. \n
Collectively, these geared segments saw an 8% year-on-year increase in port loadings for salt, reinforcing their dominance in this specific commodity niche.
\n\nUS Demand Spikes Amid Winter Conditions
\nOn the receiving end, the United States emerged as a primary driver of demand. US salt discharges hit a record 4.2 million tonnes in the first two months of the year, a staggering 62% jump over the previous year. Industry analysts attribute this surge to extreme winter weather, notably the impact of winter storm \'Fern,\' which necessitated high volumes of imported de-icing salt.
\n\nReshaping Traditional Trade Flows
\nWhile the global salt market has traditionally been dominated by exporters such as Australia, India, Chile, and Mexico, the recent surge from North Africa is beginning to reshape trade routes. Major importing markets like China, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan remain the primary destinations, but the increased activity in the Mediterranean and North African regions suggests a diversification of supply chains for this essential raw material.