Situation

The situation is stable. Demand is weak, and rates on this trade are low.

 Obstacles

We expect the blank sailing program to impact westbound routings in the wake of Chinese New Year, which could affect space availability and potentially lead to rate increases for exports from Europe in April and May.

 Outlook

There won't be any traffic through the Suez Canal anytime soon, as the Houthis have threatened to attack commercial shipping in the Red Sea in retaliation for the attacks on Iran.

Main Ports: North Europe to Far East

^{Source: Market average rates for 40‘ containers according to www.xeneta.com}

Main Ports: Mediterranean to Far East