Drewry’s World Container Index rose 2.4 per cent to $4,639 per FEU in the week ended July 9, its highest level since September 2024, driven by stronger demand and firmer Asia-Europe freight rates.
Tight capacity, planned rate hikes, and limited blank sailings supported prices, while Middle East tensions continued to add uncertainty to global shipping.
On the Asia–Europe trade route, spot rates continue to increase this week. Freight rates from Shanghai to Genoa rose 2 per cent to $6,463 per 40ft container, and those from Shanghai to Rotterdam increased 5 per cent to $4,933 per 40ft container. According to Drewry’s Container Capacity Insight, only four blank sailings have been announced on the Asia to Europe trade route for the next week, reflecting constrained capacity. Carriers are attempting to support freight rates through higher FAK levels, with CMA CGM announcing FAK rates of $7,000 per 40ft container on Asia–Europe and $7,900–$8,500 per 40ft container on Asia–Med, effective from 15 July. Drewry expects rates to stay firm in the coming weeks.
Freight rates from New York to Rotterdam increased 1 per cent to $1,022 per FEU, and Rotterdam to New York rates increased 5 per cent to $2,723 per FEU. Rotterdam-Shanghai rates decreased 5 per cent to $612 per FEU, while Los Angeles-Shanghai rates steadied at $825 per 40 ft container.
The East–West container freight market remains volatile, as US–Iran tensions have reignited uncertainty in the Middle East. Heightened security concerns around the Strait of Hormuz continue to disrupt shipping operations. While the seasonal demand peak is expected to ease from late July into early August, carriers are seeking to sustain freight rates through surcharges.
Fibre2Fashion News Desk (KUL)
