Latest container freight indices show renewed increases in spot rates from Asia to North America, contrasted with falling prices on Asia–Europe trades. Analysts attribute the divergence to demand imbalances, continued Red Sea rerouting and persistent congestion in key Asian ports.
Recent data for global container freight rates in mid‑September indicates that price growth is concentrated on the transpacific trade, while Asia–Europe routes are moving lower. According to the Drewry World Container Index for a 40‑foot unit, the composite index for the week to around 17–18 September rose by about 1% to roughly 4,500 dollars per FEU, but Shanghai–Los Angeles rates jumped 5% to around 7,700 dollars, and Shanghai–New York climbed 7% to more than 10,300 dollars. Regional indicators, including the Japanese container freight index, remain over twice their levels a year ago, underscoring that ocean transport costs are still exceptionally high compared with pre‑crisis norms.
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