Drewry WCI rises for fourth straight week

The latest Drewry World Container Index (WCI) increased 3% to US$2,800 per 40ft container, marking the fourth consecutive weekly increase as early peak season demand continues supporting freight markets.

Asia-Europe and Transpacific trades drove the latest gains as carriers pushed higher pricing through rate increases and tighter capacity management.

Freight rates from Shanghai to Rotterdam rose 3% to US$2,861 per 40ft container.

Shanghai-Genoa rates increased 4% to US$4,253 per 40ft container.

Drewry said only four blank sailings are scheduled on the Asia-Europe trade next week, indicating relatively stable capacity deployment.

Carriers continue pushing higher pricing. CMA CGM recently announced FAK rates around US$4,700 per 40ft container for Asia-Europe cargo and US$5,500-US$5,700 for Asia-Mediterranean shipments.

Transpacific trades also strengthened.

Shanghai-New York rates climbed 6% to US$4,597 per 40ft container.

Shanghai-Los Angeles rates increased 3% to US$3,473 per 40ft container.

Drewry reported eight blank sailings on the Transpacific next week, tightening available capacity.

Early peak season demand, cargo frontloading ahead of expected bunker adjustments on 1 July and continuing carrier pricing actions are supporting the market.

Rising bunker costs and Middle East geopolitical tensions are adding further upward pressure across major East-West trade lanes.

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