Pelita Bara Samudera (PBS) is disposing of its three bulkers, claiming that contract rates on offer by Indonesian clients do not justify its continued presence in the dry sector.

Well-placed sources indicate that the three Tsuneishi-built sisterships — the 45,000-dwt bulkers Akita, Loreto and Paiton II (all built 1999) — have been sold to an undisclosed buyer for $3.5m each.

Company officials confirmed to Trade­Winds this week that the trio was going to Chinese buyers, with a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed and delivery expected sometime in December.

While