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Supertanker Rates Hit $800,000 a Day as Gulf Tensions Escalate
oilprice.com · September 11, 2026 · Week 2026-37
Summary
Supertanker freight rates on the benchmark Middle East-to-China route have surged to $800,000 per day due to escalating geopolitical tensions between the US and Iran in the Gulf. The destruction of Iranian-linked tankers has introduced a significant war-risk premium, making it increasingly costly to transport crude oil and refined products from the region to key Asian markets.
Strategic Implication
The dramatic spike in shipping costs creates a major logistical and pricing challenge for all Gulf NOCs, potentially eroding margins and forcing Asian buyers to seek alternative, safer crude sources.