Ocean freight rates across the Asia Pacific region are on an upward trajectory as tightening supply chains and ongoing instability in the Middle East disrupt global shipping networks, according to Dimerco’s April 2026 Asia Pacific Freight Report.
The report highlights that disruptions in the Persian Gulf are impacting vessel schedules, increasing fuel-related costs, and causing congestion at major ports. As a result, shipping costs are expected to continue rising despite the absence of peak-season demand.
Restricted shipments to the Middle East—particularly for temperature-controlled cargo and dangerous goods—are already being observed. At the same time, higher fuel prices are being passed on through bunker adjustment factors (BAF) and emergency bunker adjustment factors (EBAF), adding further pressure on freight rates.
Across regions, ocean freight markets are tightening. In Asia Pacific, both ocean and rail freight are firming due to surcharges and modal shifts. Europe-bound trade lanes are seeing capacity constraints as vessels reroute via the Cape of Good Hope, extending transit times and driving rates higher. In North America, blank sailings and additional surcharges are similarly contributing to rising costs.
In Northeast Asia, carriers are actively managing capacity while pushing through rate increases. South Korea has seen Europe-bound freight rates surge by over 30%, with capacity adjustments ongoing. China’s market presents a mixed picture, with volatility in North China due to blank sailings and cargo rollovers, while East and South China are experiencing rising rates driven by emergency fuel surcharges and stronger long-haul demand.
Southeast Asia, India, and Australia are also witnessing upward rate trends, particularly on routes to the United States and Europe. Shippers are being advised to secure bookings one to three weeks in advance amid tightening capacity and schedule disruptions.
Country-specific challenges are adding to the strain. India is facing reduced sailing frequencies on key long-haul routes, while Vietnam risks short-term equipment shortages. Singapore is seeing the imposition of emergency fuel surcharges, and the Philippines continues to grapple with port congestion and trucking constraints.
In North America, ongoing blank sailings on transpacific routes are leading to delays and longer transit times. Meanwhile, in Europe, the widespread rerouting of Asia–Europe services via the Cape of Good Hope is reducing effective capacity and sustaining upward rate pressure.
Overall, the report underscores that a combination of geopolitical tensions, rising fuel costs, and operational disruptions is tightening global ocean freight capacity, with rates expected to remain elevated in the near term.
