Drewry’s Intra-Asia Container Index (IACI) reported a 5% decline in the second week of January, with the composite index softening to $665 per 40ft container.
This latest data reflects a broader cooling trend in the regional market, with the index now sitting 20% lower than the same period last year. Despite the recent dip, Drewry’s analysts project that freight rates will find a floor and remain stable over the coming weeks as demand ramps up in anticipation of the Chinese New Year in mid-February.
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Current Composite Index: $665 (per 40ft unit)
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Weekly Change: -5%
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Year-on-Year Change: -20%
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Market Outlook: Stable, driven by pre-holiday demand.
The IACI provides a high-frequency look at the health of Asian trade. Launched as a weekly service on January 2, 2026, the index tracks actual spot container freight rates across 18 major intra-Asia trade routes.
The index is a weighted average that offers a comprehensive view of the shipping landscape between major hubs, including Shanghai, Busan, Ho Chi Minh City, Jakarta, and Singapore. By monitoring these specific corridors, the IACI serves as a critical benchmark for shippers, carriers, and 3PLs operating in the world’s most active shipping region.
| Origin – Destination | Origin – Destination |
| Busan – Shanghai | Shanghai – Jebel Ali |
| Ho Chi Minh City – Shanghai | Shanghai – Kaohsiung |
| Jakarta – Shanghai | Shanghai – Laem Chabang |
| Jawaharlal Nehru Port – Shanghai | Shanghai – Manila |
| Kaohsiung – Shanghai | Shanghai – Singapore |
| Laem Chabang – Shanghai | Shanghai – Tanjung Pelepas |
| Shanghai – Busan | Shanghai – Yokohama |
| Shanghai – Ho Chi Minh City | Yokohama – Shanghai |
| Shanghai – Jakarta | Shanghai – Jawaharlal Nehru Port |
