The Drewry World Container Index (WCI) fell 10 percent this week, reaching $2,212 per 40-foot container, marking the second consecutive week of declines. The drop was driven primarily by falling spot rates on the Transpacific and Asia–Europe trade routes following the post-Chinese New Year slowdown in cargo volumes. Rates from Shanghai to New York decreased 11 percent to $3,191, while Shanghai to Los Angeles fell 12 percent to $2,546. On key Asia–Europe routes, Shanghai–Rotterdam rates dropped 9 percent to $2,510, and Shanghai–Genoa fell 8 percent to $3,520.
© Tawatchai Prakobkit | Dreamstime
Carriers responded to softening demand by increasing blank sailings, a strategy aimed at balancing capacity and preventing steep market volatility. However, operational approaches differ across carriers: CMA CGM is rerouting three Asia–Europe services from the Suez Canal to the Cape of Good Hope, while Maersk will resume its scheduled service from India to the U.S. East Coast via the canal starting 26 January. These contrasting strategies indicate that capacity will re-enter the market gradually, allowing carriers to manage risk and adjust network operations without triggering sharp spot rate declines.
© Drewry
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