US–China Commodity Trade and the Atlantic Freight Outlook

This week's Allied Quantumsea Research reviews the latest developments in US–China commodity trade relations and their implications for dry bulk freight markets. The report examines how recent trade agreements and purchasing commitments could reshape coal, grain and minor bulk flows, with particular attention to the potential for stronger Atlantic vessel employment.

• Coal: The commitment for China to import at least 10 Mt of US coal annually in 2027 and 2028 could increase long-haul shipments from US Atlantic and Gulf ports, which have historically handled the majority of US coal exports.

• Grain: US soybean shipments to China have recovered in 2026, with recent Pacific Northwest loadings exceeding those from the US Gulf. The freight impact will depend on the distribution of future shipments between the two export regions.

• Trade policy: The September US–China tariff framework remains subject to implementation. Effective dates and product-specific tariff reductions have not yet been confirmed.

This story was originally published by Breakwave Advisors. Read the full story at Breakwave Advisors →