Trafigura Buys Seven Tankers From SFL in $275 Million Deal

· Shipping

Trafigura Group bought seven oil tankers from New York-listed SFL Corp., a deal expected to generate about $275 million in net cash proceeds and a book gain of roughly $175 million for the seller. The package comprises four 2014- and 2015-built LR2 product tankers and three 2019-built suezmaxes. The transaction is the latest example of trading houses and state energy companies acquiring vessels to ship crude and products as shipping costs rise. Commodities giant Trafigura is expanding its owned fleet as freight markets tighten, echoing a broader trend of traders taking control of tonnage to secure transport capacity.

Why it matters：Commodity traders buying tonnage directly shifts control of tanker capacity away from traditional owners, a trend that could reshape chartering markets and freight rates.

Key points

  • SFL will net about $275 million in cash and a roughly $175 million book gain
  • The package includes four LR2 product tankers and three suezmaxes
  • The deal reflects traders acquiring vessels as shipping costs rise

Sources (original reporting)

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