Marine insurers warns about the bauxite liquefaction risks to Malaysian shipowners

After a Malaysian shipment of bauxite ore sank last month, marine insurers are issuing warnings about the dangers of liquefaction of bauxite that occurs due to the presence of excess moisture and can cause capsizing of the vessel due to dis-balanced weight of the cargo.

The Bulk Jupiter that sunk just off Vietnam in January had only one survivor raising questions about the risks of carrying bauxite although this has not deterred the Malaysian shipments of the ore from Kuantan port when the country is looking to ramp up its exports.

Kuantan situated at the east cost of Peninsular Malaysia is experiencing heavy rains and flooding causing the wet cargo situation. Marine insurer Skuld says that members need to be conscious about the situation and take the necessary precautions.

At present this phenomenon is only noticed in cargos of bauxite that are originating from Malaysia and Indonesia.

Industry sources reveal that there has been at least one such incident where the cargo had to be unloaded as it was showing risks of liquefaction. The port is planning to prepare new regulations which include additional cargo testing, extending the cargo inspection time from the one week that is currently being followed.