Intra-Asia Container Rates Hit Record High at $1,402
The Drewry Intra-Asia Container Index climbed 6% to a new record, driven by port congestion and weather disruptions.
The Drewry Intra-Asia Container Index rose 6% this week to US$1,402 per 40-foot container. This marks the fourth consecutive week of record highs for the benchmark. Geopolitical tensions and typhoon-related disruptions are the primary drivers of this increase. Capacity constraints across the region continue to tighten supply.
Spot rates from China to Southeast and South Asia surged ahead of the Golden Week holiday. Data from GN auto markets/forex: spot rates confirms significant price movements on key trade lanes. The pressure on freight costs is evident across multiple destination ports.
Key route rates surge 15%
Rates from Shanghai to Laem Chabang increased 15% to US$1,324 per container. The Shanghai to Ho Chi Minh City route also rose 15% to US$1,161. These increases reflect heightened demand and limited vessel availability. Carriers are prioritizing loads for the upcoming holiday period.
The Shanghai to Jebel Ali route saw a 13% increase to US$8,509. Alternative routes through Jawaharlal Nehru Port also experienced rate hikes. The cost of shipping to the Middle East remains elevated. These figures represent a significant jump from previous weeks.
Port waiting times extend to 78 hours
Average vessel waiting times at Shanghai reached 78 hours in week 37. This is an increase of 13 hours compared to the previous week. Ningbo ports recorded waiting times of 77 hours, up 11 hours from week 36. Weather-related disruptions continue to impact vessel schedules and logistics efficiency.
Fuel surcharges and route restructures
CMA CGM restructured its China-Middle East services starting in mid-September. The CIMEX1 route removed stops at Qingdao, Hong Kong, and Sohar. The CIMEX3 route now includes Qingdao and Sohar alongside other key ports. The turnaround time for CIMEX3 increased from seven to eight weeks.
Singapore bunker prices are approximately 60% higher year on year in Q3 2026. Higher fuel costs are adding pressure to freight rates. ONE increased its emergency fuel surcharge on short-haul routes to US$60 per TEU. This surcharge applies from September 16. Drewry expects freight rates to stabilize in the coming weeks.
