Freight costs for oil tankers shipping crude from the Black Sea to the Mediterranean have surged to a record following a flurry of drone attacks, intensifying supply chain disruptions. The heightened security risks have driven up shipping expenses, pressuring crude prices and complicating logistics for exporters.

The volatility in tanker rates is directly affecting Kazakhstan’s primary CPC (Caspian Production Compression) export grade, with prices declining as shipping costs eat into profit margins. Analysts warn that sustained attacks could further strain regional energy flows and global crude markets.

The situation underscores growing concerns over maritime security in strategically vital waterways, where Black Sea routes are critical for oil exports from the Caspian region.