Container congestion in Asian ports has risen to around 4.3 million TEU, pushing carriers to shift more Asia–Europe services back through the Suez Canal, impacting freight rates and highlighting the strain on regional port infrastructure.
Maritime and logistics industry reports indicate that early September 2026 has seen congestion in Asian ports reach approximately 4.3 million TEU, surpassing levels recorded at the height of the pandemic. A European container market update notes a growing number of ships waiting for berths at major Asian hubs, causing schedule disruptions and compelling carriers to re‑optimize their networks. In response, several Asia–Europe services are being routed back via the Suez Canal, which is contributing to declining freight rates on these corridors and altering the distribution of vessels between alternative routes.
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