Container freight rates fell for eleven consecutive weeks between July and September, extending the slump seen in the first half of the year. The decline was driven by a persistent imbalance between supply and demand, as global cargo volumes weakened and vessel capacity continued to rise.
In July, the market’s downward trajectory intensified, with several consecutive weeks of freight rate declines and no recovery in sight. Analysts linked the weakness to falling demand for maritime transport and abundant vessel availability, both of which continued to weigh heavily on prices.
By August, the market briefly showed signs of stabilisation before entering another sustained period of decline. The reinstatement of US tariffs on certain categories of goods further restricted cargo flows, reinforcing the downward trend. The report notes that this environment of uncertainty and reduced demand “highlighted the sector’s dependence on developments in international trade and geopolitical-economic conditions.”
The September data showed no relief. Freight rates continued to slide as trade activity fell further on major routes such as Far East–Europe. The imbalance between capacity and demand persisted, and the lack of recovery deepened uncertainty among shipping lines.
Compared to earlier quarters, the third quarter confirmed that the modest rate stabilisation seen in late Q1 and early Q2 had completely evaporated. Carriers’ earlier capacity management measures proved insufficient to counteract the effects of weak global trade and expanding fleets.
Overall, Q3 2025 painted a picture of a container freight market still searching for equilibrium amid global economic headwinds, tariff-driven disruptions, and persistent overcapacity.
