Transpacific container rates are rising as shippers move cargo early ahead of the Lunar New Year, with Red Sea diversions adding longer lead times, reports American Shipper.
Freightos data showed Asia-Europe prices up one per cent last week to US$2,742 per FEU, 12 per cent higher than mid-December. Asia-Mediterranean rates climbed 4 per cent to $4,000 per FEU, the highest since July.
Analysts said early pre-holiday demand is keeping prices elevated. Chinese factories will shut for several weeks from February 17, pushing shippers to secure space in advance.
Carriers tested a return of mega-vessels to the Red Sea-Suez Canal route, but safety and cost concerns remain. Saudi Arabia bombed Yemen's Port of Mukalla on December 30, heightening risks amid Houthi threats and regional instability.
On Asia-US lanes, west coast rates rose nine per cent to $2,145 per FEU since mid-December, while east coast prices climbed 15 per cent to $3,364 per FEU. Analysts expect demand to keep rates firm into the holiday.
Global container volumes grew four per cent through early Q4 despite weaker US imports. S&P projects US imports will fall two per cent in 2026, marking the third consecutive year of contraction in two decades.
https://www.shippingazette.com/news?news_id=9260100000239
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