Container Shipping Rates Climb Following U.S.-China Tariff Truce, Though Growth Shows Signs of Slowing

Container Shipping Rates Climb Following U.S.-China Tariff

News: Global container shipping rates surged this week, driven by a U.S.-China tariff truce that slashed duties on Chinese goods from 145% to 30%.

The World Container Index jumped 41% to $3,527 per 40-foot container, with Shanghai–Los Angeles rates spiking 57% to $5,876.

The Shanghai Containerized Freight Index (SCFI) is also nearing $6,000 per FEU. However, analysts warn the momentum may be slowing, with late June quotes trending between $5,000–$5,500.

Drewry forecasts a demand dip in the second half of 2025, potentially leading to lower rates. Future fluctuations will depend on U.S. tariff rulings and evolving shipping capacity, especially amid new port fees targeting Chinese vessels.