Drewry’s World Container Index (WCI) climbed 5% this week to $2,279 per 40-foot container, marking a fourth straight week of increases. Asia-Europe led the gains, with Transpacific rates also pushing higher, according to Drewry’s assessment of March 26, 2026.
Asia-Europe rates rose sharply on the back of ongoing Middle East tensions. Shanghai to Genoa jumped 12% to $3,474 per 40-foot container. Shanghai to Rotterdam gained 3% to $2,552. Only three blank sailings are scheduled on the Asia-Europe route next week, pointing to stable capacity. CMA CGM has announced higher FAK rates of around $3,500 per FEU effective April 1. Drewry expects spot rates to keep rising in the coming weeks.
On the Transpacific, Shanghai to New York rose 3% to $3,393. Shanghai to Los Angeles gained 4% to $2,686. Six blank sailings are planned across Transpacific East and West Coast routes next week.
Bunker fuel is adding fresh pressure. Strait of Hormuz disruptions have tightened fuel availability in key Asian hubs including Singapore and China. Carriers are responding with slow steaming, alternative refuelling strategies and emergency fuel surcharges. Drewry expects these pressures to keep freight rates elevated in the short term.
