Drewry’s World Container Index rose 2% to US$4,585 per 40-foot container on October 22, 2026, its highest level in 15 weeks and the second consecutive weekly increase. Rates from Shanghai to Rotterdam rose 3% and from Shanghai to Genoa 5%.
According to Drewry, carriers have announced eight blank sailings on the Asia-Europe route for next week, up from two, to put upward pressure on rates. Drewry expects a slight further increase. Port congestion in Asia has eased, with waiting times in Shanghai falling from 97 hours to 38 hours in recent weeks. In the Persian Gulf, security risks continue to restrict movements: only two container ships entered the Gulf in week 42, down from five the week before.