Drewry World Container Index (WCI) rebounded slightly this week after three consecutive weeks of declines, rising 1% week-on-week to USD 4,/FEU, supported by upward momentum on trans-Pacific routes.
On trans-Pacific routes, spot rates from Shanghai to New York rose 4% week-on-week to USD 7,/FEU, while Shanghai to Los Angeles increased 3% to USD 5,/FEU. At present, cargo volumes remain sufficient in August, and carriers have successfully implemented General Rate Increases (GRI). Meanwhile, ongoing congestion at southern Chinese ports has tightened effective vessel supply, further pushing rates upward. According to Drewry’s weekly container capacity report, 8 blank sailings are scheduled next week, unchanged from this week, indicating stable available capacity in the market. Accordingly, Drewry expects rate volatility to narrow in the coming week.
On Asia-Europe routes, spot rates remained broadly stable this week. Shanghai to Genoa edged down 2% to USD 5,/FEU, while Shanghai to Rotterdam held steady at USD 4,/FEU. This week saw 3 blank sailings on Asia-Europe routes, with the same number of 3 expected next week. Given that carriers continue to proactively manage capacity supply, Drewry expects rates to remain stable next week.
The Intra-Asia Container Index (IACI) closed at USD /FEU this week, up 1% week-on-week, ending a six-week losing streak, with most routes seeing rate recoveries, primarily driven by ongoing disruptions from the Middle East situation.
Looking ahead, uncertainties including global trade policy direction, geopolitical developments, and port congestion conditions will continue to dominate market sentiment and rate trends.
