The global container freight market witnessed a sharp upswing this week as the Drewry World Container Index (WCI) surged 12% to $2,553 per 40-foot container, driven by rising spot rates across the Transpacific and Asia-Europe trade lanes.
Freight rates from Shanghai to New York climbed 14% to $4,252 per FEU, while Shanghai–Los Angeles rates increased 10% to $3,357 per FEU. The rally was fuelled by the implementation of Emergency Fuel Surcharges (EFS), Peak Season Surcharges (PSS), and fresh General Rate Increases (GRIs) announced by carriers.
Asia-Europe trades also recorded strong gains amid tightening capacity and growing cargo demand. Rates from Shanghai to Genoa jumped 20% to $3,701 per FEU, while Shanghai to Rotterdam increased 11% to $2,413 per FEU.
According to market analysts, shippers are advancing bookings due to concerns over vessel space constraints and ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting key maritime corridors, including the Red Sea and Strait of Hormuz.
Carriers are also continuing aggressive capacity management measures, including blank sailings, to support freight levels. Industry observers expect rates to remain firm in the coming weeks amid higher bunker costs, geopolitical uncertainty, and expectations of an early peak shipping season.