Situation

The volumes moving on this trade lane remained steady in September, and we did not see a massive peak before the Golden Week holidays in China. Although the situation in Chinese ports has improved, there is still a backlog, creating some delays for vessels at major ports. The rate trend has been declining for several weeks on the trade lanes to North Europe and Mediterranean destinations.

Obstacles

Carriers have announced several blank sailings in anticipation of lower demand during the first half of October. In addition, current delays in Asia could also affect sailing schedules.

Outlook

Prospects for the second half of October are promising, with no slow period expected after the Golden Week holidays. Although the downward trend in rates will continue, stabilization is expected toward the end of the month, when demand is likely to increase as a result of seasonal cargo. If the geopolitical situation remains stable and services are routed via the Suez Canal as planned, this could improve schedule reliability and reduce delays caused by congestion in Asia and Europe.

Main Ports: Far East to North Europe

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

Main Ports: Far East to Mediterranean