Posted on: December 16, 2025 / Last updated: December 16, 2025
Freight Rates Rise on Europe and Mediterranean Routes Ahead of Lunar New Year
Freight rates from Asia to Europe and the Mediterranean have clearly entered an upward phase.
Market activity on Europe-bound routes has become increasingly active in recent weeks.
According to SCFI data released on December 12, short-term freight rates from Shanghai to Northern Europe increased by around 10 percent week on week.
Rates to the Mediterranean surged by approximately 19 percent, reaching 2,737 dollars per TEU.
This marked the fourth consecutive weekly increase for Mediterranean routes.
CONTENTS
Key Drivers Behind the Rate Increase
There are two major factors supporting the current rise in freight rates.
- Relatively stable seasonal demand toward the year end
- The impact of General Rate Increases implemented since early December
Carriers appear to be strengthening rate levels ahead of long-term contract negotiations.
European Routes Show Stronger Momentum
Drewry’s World Container Index also confirms the upward trend on European routes.
Rates from Shanghai to Rotterdam increased by 5 percent, while Genoa-bound rates rose by 13 percent.
The Mediterranean market remains tighter than Northern Europe, supported by limited vessel space.
In contrast, conditions on North America-bound routes remain mixed.
While SCFI indicates a rebound, other indices such as NYFI show slight declines.
This suggests the market has not fully shifted into a broad-based bullish phase.
Futures Market Signals Caution
Another important signal comes from China’s freight futures market.
Despite rising spot rates, futures prices on the INE temporarily declined.
This indicates that investors may view the current rate increase as potentially short-lived.
Lunar New Year Becomes the Key Focus
Looking ahead, the Lunar New Year will be the most critical factor shaping the market.
Next year’s Lunar New Year begins in mid-February, which is slightly later than usual.
Drewry estimates the December blank sailing ratio at around 9 percent.
Supply adjustments remain visible, particularly on trans-Pacific routes.
- The timing of pre-holiday cargo rushes
- The smooth launch of newly reorganized carrier alliances
Shippers and logistics managers should prepare for near-term rate increases while remaining cautious about post-holiday corrections and schedule disruptions.
