Drewry World Container Index falls 2% as peak-season freight rates ease

The Drewry World Container Index (WCI) slipped 2% this week to US$4,547 per 40‑ft container, ending a ten‑week streak of gains. The decline reflects easing peak‑season momentum, although carrier capacity management continues to support freight rates. On the Transpacific lane, spot rates from Shanghai to Los Angeles fell 3% to US$6,272, while Shanghai‑to‑New York remained unchanged. Nine blank sailings are planned on the Transpacific route, and recent FAK rate increases did not hold. In Asia‑Europe trade, Shanghai‑to‑Genoa rates dropped 3% to US$6,300 and Shanghai‑to‑Rotterdam slipped 1% to US$4,873. Congestion at European ports is easing, with vessel waiting times at Genoa down 33 hours.

Drewry highlighted ongoing geopolitical risks, citing US‑Iran tensions, uncertainty around the Bab el‑Mandeb Strait, and the possibility of new US security charges for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The current US tariff suspension expires on 24 July, with potential new tariffs slated for early August. Despite the moderation in demand, the consultancy expects freight rates to remain broadly stable in the near term as carriers balance capacity and geopolitical uncertainty.