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Global Shipping Rates Drop 4% Amid Weak Demand

1/16/2026

23 5 Full Breakdown

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Story summary
  • Drewry World Container Index (global shipping index) fell 4% this week to $2,445 per 40-foot container.
  • The decline followed a 16% rise last week, driven by weak demand and geopolitical volatility.
  • Transpacific and Asia-Europe routes posted significant rate drops.
  • Despite Chinese New Year expectations, carriers could not maintain pricing power.
  • In December 2025, the Asia-Europe spot market briefly recovered on sustained demand and a cautious return to the Suez Canal.