Hapag-Lloyd announced that starting August 28, 2024, the GRI fees for shipping from Asia to South America and the West Coast will increase by $2,000. Additionally, a peak season surcharge will be imposed on container cargo from the Far East to Australia. This adjustment in policy occurs amidst frequent fluctuations in current market freight rates and has garnered widespread attention.
In July 2024, China's export container transportation market showed stable improvement with an overall increase in freight rates, as the freight index for major routes generally rose. Despite ongoing challenges affecting the European and North American markets, port throughput has been trending upwards, and the ship leasing market remains active, demonstrating the resilience and potential of the container shipping market.
In the first half of this year, Yangpu Port's container throughput exceeded 1 million TEUs, setting a new historical record. The newly opened routes, especially the foreign trade line connecting to the Middle East, have significantly improved transportation efficiency and reduced costs for enterprises, providing strong support for the economic development of Hainan.
Recently, freight rates in the US West shipping market have declined, prompting several shipping companies to adjust their pricing strategies. Various analyses indicate that the rate decrease is influenced by factors such as the situation in Israel and Palestine, the drop in the SCFI index, and the introduction of new shipping routes. Although the shipping market remains strong in the short term, the rate of increase in freight prices may slow down due to market fluctuations and changes in shipping demand. The industry must closely monitor market dynamics and potential risks.
Recent data shows that the comprehensive export container freight rates have risen for six consecutive weeks, reaching the highest level since September 2022. At the same time, the U.S. has implemented new tariffs on certain goods from China, with increases ranging from 25% to 100%, presenting both opportunities and challenges for the export market. Companies need to respond flexibly and optimize their strategies.
In 2023, container transportation for automobiles gained significant attention due to its four main advantages: flexible shipping schedules, secure fixation guarantees, real-time visual tracking, and excellent environmental benefits. This makes it a new choice for maritime auto transport in the future.
The Lanzhou Dongchuan Railway Logistics Center officially opened on December 31, marking its successful integration with domestic and international trade markets. This new project, which includes the Dongchuan Railway Freight Center and Lanzhou Railway Comprehensive Cargo Yard, lays the foundation for improved regional logistics efficiency. With a layout of 'two zones and five parks,' the expected cargo throughput by 2020 is projected to reach 7.08 million tons, with a forecast of 15.42 million tons by 2030, further promoting the development of the Silk Road Economic Belt.
Hebei Province has made significant achievements in container throughput, reaching a total of 2.206 million TEUs by the end of November, a year-on-year increase of 34.8%. Huanghua Port has experienced the fastest growth, with an increase of 71.9%. The number of shipping routes has increased to 66, and the throughput is expected to exceed 2.4 million TEUs by the end of the year, setting a new historical record.
As of the end of November, Jiaxing Port's container throughput reached 1.089 million TEUs, marking a 4.1% increase. The launch of Dushan Wharf has transformed the container business model, resulting in a remarkable 76.8% growth in the Dushan Port area. New inland container shipping routes have opened to four locations, further promoting overall development. This series of achievements highlights Jiaxing Port's robust growth momentum and indicates broad future development prospects.
In 2023, Jiaxing Port achieved a remarkable container throughput of 1.089 million TEUs in the first 11 months, marking a 4.1% increase. Foreign trade containers grew by 7.8%. With the support of Dushan Wharf, the throughput at Dushan Port Area significantly increased by 76.8%. Additionally, the development of inland waterways has injected new vitality into container transportation, seeing an increase of over 100%.
