Transpacific, Asia–Europe hikes lift Drewry WCI by 6.7%

After three weeks of falling spot rates—which had dropped to their lowest level since January 2025—the Transpacific head haul finally saw a recovery. Spot rates from Shanghai to Los Angeles climbed 8 per cent to $2,256 per 40ft container, while rates to New York rose 6 per cent to $2,895 per FEU.

Rather than relying on traditional fortnightly adjustments, some carriers have shifted to a weekly strategy for general rate increases (GRIs). Instead of announcing large hikes that quickly erode, they are implementing smaller, more frequent increases to maintain consistent upward pressure on spot rates. This approach proved effective this week, and Drewry expects stable rates in the week ahead.

On the Asia–Europe lanes, spot rates also strengthened. Rates on the Shanghai–Genoa route rose sharply, up 15 per cent to $2,648 per 40ft container, while rates from Shanghai to Rotterdam increased 4 per cent to $2,241 per 40ft container. Unlike the Transpacific market, Asia–Europe has managed to sustain rate levels for three consecutive weeks, supported by FAK increases ahead of annual contract negotiations.

Rates from New York to Rotterdam eased 1 per cent to $916, while those from Rotterdam to New York fell 2 per cent to $1,632. Rates between Rotterdam and Shanghai increased 2 per cent to $460, while Los Angeles to Shanghai remained stable at $719 per 40ft container.

Uncertainty surrounding the Suez Canal continues to add volatility to Asia–Europe trade lanes, as carriers still view the Suez as the natural routing between the two regions. A full resumption of transits would return substantial capacity to the market and place downward pressure on rates, although the impact would likely unfold gradually due to potential port congestion during the realignment of East–West networks.

ALCHEMPro News Desk (KUL)