World`s idle container fleet grows to 1.4 million TEU

THE size of the world`s idle containership fleet has increased to 1.41 million TEU, representing 10.9 per cent of the total fleet as of November 9, according to the Alphaliner weekly newsletter.
"Most of the increase over the fortnight came from the carrier-operated fleet, with more vessels from the CKYH joining the idle ranks following the group`s rationalisation of the Asia-Europe services," it said.
The idle fleet of Malaysia`s MISC Bhd is said to have grown, with 35 per cent of its fleet, or 13 ships, lying idle, ranging in size from 1,300 to 8,000 TEU.
"On the other hand, MISC has opted to take on fresh charters for its newly-launched Far East-Middle East Halal Express-2 service, which required 4,000-TEU ships that MISC does not have within its current fleet," the newsletter said.
It warned "the idle fleet is expected to rise further as winter deployment service cuts take effect. Only the impact of extra slow steaming can offer some temporary relief."