Source: Market average rates for 40‘ containers according to www.xeneta.com
Trade Analysis: Transpacific
Situation
Tariff uncertainty is causing shippers to cancel orders and postpone shipments, while carriers are suspending some of their services to adjust to lower demand.
Obstacles
The tariffs and constant changes are causing inconveniences for shippers, and many are adopting a “wait and see” approach. Some are looking at alternative sourcing options to benefit from lower tariffs instead of shipping from China. In addition, the introduction of new fees for Chinese-built vessels from October 2025 on may further disrupt supply chains on this trade lane. This will naturally lead to some service adjustments, especially for carriers that rely heavily on Chinese-built vessels deployed on this route.
Outlook
Contracts for the new season have been finalized and rate levels are higher than in the previous season. Carriers have not been aggressive and the rate situation is expected to improve in the coming weeks. This could create ripple effects, prompting shippers to move more cargo in a shorter period of time. The cancellation of many services between China and the USA will also create equipment issues in Asia. This could have a negative impact on other trades since there will be fewer vessels returning empty containers from the USA to Asia.
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