Three ships are waiting to load hot-briquetted iron at the Venezuelan port of Palua, according to port agency data.
The Sozon berthed on February 5, followed by the Asia Pearl V and the Elena Topic, the data show.
The vessels are expected to leave the country in the week of February 12-16, all heading to Europe.
The draft of the Orinoco River -- between 7 meters to 10 meters -- hampers loading and affects freight costs. Vessels cannot load full cargoes. They are limited to loading 25,000 mt or less.
S&P Global Platts' monthly Venezuelan HBI export price assessment increased to $240/mt FOB for early February bookings, based on a $230-$250/mt range of bids, offers and deals.
