The Drewry World Container Index (WCI) has recorded its fifteenth consecutive week of decline, falling by 8% to $1,761 per 40ft container. The latest data reveal a sustained downward trend in spot rates across major trade routes, including the Transpacific and Asia–Europe routes, as carriers adjust to weakening demand.
Spot rates from Shanghai to Los Angeles decreased by 10%, settling at $2,311 per 40-foot container, while rates for the Shanghai to New York route fell 8% to $3,278. The Asia–Europe lane also experienced significant drops, with rates from Shanghai to Rotterdam declining 9% to $1,735 and from Shanghai to Genoa falling 7% to $1,990.
The rate reduction follows the dissipation of momentum from previous General Rate Increases (GRIs) and blank sailings. Carriers are now actively reducing capacity to match slowing demand, a trend expected to continue as factories in China shut down for the upcoming Golden Week holiday.
“The persistent weekly decline in container rates is a clear indicator of the market’s current state,” said a Drewry spokesperson. “With the supply-demand balance expected to weaken further in the coming quarters, we anticipate that spot rates will continue to contract.”
