Derlu: World Container Freight Index Up 3%

According to the latest report from Drewry, the world container freight index rose by 3% to $1958 per FEU this week. The increase was mainly driven by rising freight rates on trans-Pacific routes. With Chinese factories gradually returning to full production after the Spring Festival, Drewry expects that trans-Pacific eastbound spot rates will continue to strengthen in the coming weeks. In addition, the attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran have effectively frozen oil tanker shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, which carries about 20% of global oil supply, raising concerns about supply and pushing up crude oil prices. If the situation persists, increased fuel costs for ships, war risk surcharges, and operational disruptions could increase overall freight costs, putting upward pressure on container freight rates.