Drewry’s Intra-Asia Container Index (IACI) increased by 28% during the week ending April 7, 2024, reaching USD 865 per 40-foot equivalent unit (FEU). This marks the third consecutive weekly rise and represents a 29% year-on-year increase.  

The surge was primarily attributable to elevated spot rates on the Shanghai–Jebel Ali corridor, reflecting persistent disruptions to maritime trade flows stemming from heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. These developments have contributed to sustained upward pressure on intra-Asian freight costs.  

Rate movements across key intra-Asia routes were heterogeneous:  

• Stable: Busan–Shanghai and Yokohama–Shanghai  

• Increased: Ho Chi Minh City–Shanghai and Shanghai–Singapore  

• Decreased: Shanghai–Jawaharlal Nehru Port and Shanghai–Yokohama  

The IACI is a composite benchmark index tracking spot container freight rates across 18 major intra-Asia trade lanes, covering Northeast Asia, Southeast Asia, and Southwest Asia. It reflects all-in ocean freight charges exclusive of terminal handling charges (THC) and is published on a weekly basis.  

Resource.: https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/MOniS6YEOmwT8tzOCVi9_Q