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Ocean freight on major east–west trade lanes softened in the previous week, flashing a possibility that the pre-Lunar New Year shipping demand has already peaked.

Asia–Mediterranean rates fell by 5%, marking the first decline since the rally began in mid-October. Europe-bound routes eased by 3%, similarly snapping a multi-month uptrend. On the transpacific lane, rates also softened, though carriers have so far held levels above mid-October lows, supported by successive gains recorded in the final quarter of 2025.

Market insiders expected the global ocean freight market to remain firm in the near-term, supported by the holiday shipments ramp up, yet downward pressure may follow post-Lunar New Year, with blanked sailings already announced. Analysts suggest the combination of seasonal demand peaking and cautious carrier strategies is moderating the previously strong east–west freight momentum.

Service adjustments are also underway amid persistent geopolitical and trade uncertainties. Maersk is set to resume Red Sea transits on its Middle East and India–US East Coast service next week, while CMA CGM has opted for partial diversions around the Cape of Good Hope, citing the “uncertain international context”. A hybrid operating model, combining Red Sea passages with longer Cape routings, is expected to prevail during the transition period.

Written by: Farid Muzaffar