LNG

Dec 31 (LNGJ) - Shipping charter rates for LNG carriers in the spot market were firm as Northern Hemisphere winter market demand increased. Rates were quoted at an average of between $158,000 per day and $162,0000 per day West of Suez. Spot rates of $148,000 to 152,000 were heard for the East of Suez charter market for vessels of between 155,000-165,000 cubic metres capacity, according to various brokers. One-year time charters were also little changed for the most modern vessels and were available for around $47,000 per day.