Pressemitteilung: Ocean Freight Rates Surge on Renewed U.S. Tariff Concerns / We would like to update you on significant developments affecting global ocean freight markets and supply chain planning. Container shipping rates have risen sharply in recent weeks as importers accelerate shipments ahead of potential new U.S. tariff measures. According to market benchmarks, the Drewry World Container Index has climbed to approximately USD 4,200 per FEU, the highest level since September 2024 and roughly 40% above the same period last year. The Shanghai Containerized Freight Index (SCFI) has more than doubled year-on-year, reflecting strong demand and tightening capacity on key trade lanes. (maritime-executive.com) What is driving the increase? The current market is being driven by a combination of factors: • Front-loading of shipments by U.S. importers seeking to avoid possible tariff increases. • Strong export demand from Asia, particularly on Trans-Pacific routes. • Constrained vessel and equipment availability on several major trades. • Ongoing geopolitical and network disruptions affecting global shipping schedules and transshipment hubs (maritime-executive.com) (....)