Drewry's World Container Index jumped 12% to $3,969 per 40ft container on June 18, the highest level in 18 months. Transpacific rates surged: Shanghai-New York rose 15% to $6,769/FEU and Shanghai-Los Angeles climbed 10% to $5,142/FEU. Asia-Europe trades also strengthened: Shanghai-Rotterdam +15% to $4,342/FEU and Shanghai-Genoa +12% to $5,756/FEU. Drewry's Container Capacity Insight noted 6 blank sailings on the transpacific next week and 3 on Asia-Europe, reflecting tight capacity. The index is being driven by early peak-season frontloading ahead of expected U.S. tariff changes in July and the 1 July bunker fuel adjustment. Carriers are stacking PSS surcharges and FAK rate increases from July. The recent US-Iran interim agreement has improved sentiment, but uncertainty over implementation keeps geopolitical risk premium in place.
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