Eng
The global container freight market remained under strong downward pressure throughout the third quarter of 2025, according to the latest quarterly analysis by the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens.
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.
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.
Source: trans.info