Global shipping rates “hit rock bottom” in nearly 2 years

VTV.vn - Global shipping rates continue to plummet as demand declines sharply due to the impact of new tax policies imposed by the US on its trading partners.

Illustration photo.

According to the Drewry World Container Index (WCI), average freight rates fell to $1,669 per container as of October 2 - the lowest level in nearly 20 months.

The Shanghai - Los Angeles route recorded a rate of 2,196 USD/container , down 58% compared to the same period last year and below the break-even point of major carriers such as Maersk or Hapag-Lloyd. The price on the Shanghai - New York route also decreased by 46%, down to 3,200 USD/container .

Experts say that freight rates falling below the break-even point will put great pressure on industry profits, especially in the context of a continuously increasing supply of new container ships.

Meanwhile, inflation in the US and the trend of cutting orders by retailers such as Walmart and Target make the market outlook even more gloomy.

Analysts predict that the fourth quarter of 2025 could be the shipping industry's most difficult period since 2023, when freight rates return to pre-Red Sea crisis levels and oversupply becomes increasingly evident.

Source: https://vtv.vn/gia-cuoc-van-tai-bien-toan-cau-cham-day-gan-2-nam-100251004184405669.htm