Working Conditions Aboard the Stl-Qianjiang

The 'STL Qianjiang' has made a significant course adjustment after loading ethane at Port Neches on June 11, 2025. Originally destined for China, the ship is now en route to Dahej, India, following recent mandates from Washington requiring US companies to obtain export licenses for shipping shale gas to their primary market, China. Notably, approximately 50% of US ethane exports are sent to China, primarily to support its robust petrochemical sector. The vessel, which had been engaged with Energy Transfer's Nederland terminal for a shipment to Satellite Chemical in China, has confirmed its new destination as Dahej. The ultimate recipient of this cargo will be Reliance Industries, a major player in the Indian market. Since July 2022, 'STL Qianjiang' has operated exclusively between the US and Satellite Chemical’s petrochemical facility in Lianyungang. However, the recent trade tensions have forced a reevaluation of supply chains, resulting in this shift in ethane flows. Major US ethane producers and exporters, including Energy Transfer and Enterprise Products Partners, have received formal notifications from the US Commerce Department, requiring them to navigate the licensing process to continue exporting to China.