Global Container Freight Rates Up 130% Since February on West Asia Tensions: Jefferies

Global container freight rates have risen 130 per cent since February 2026, as renewed tensions in West Asia have pushed up shipping costs, according to a report by Jefferies. The increase comes as India’s container-based export-import trade continues to grow.

The report says freight rates had been falling steadily since early 2025, as the elevated rates of 2024 eased with an improving balance between demand and supply. The latest rise has put shipping costs back in focus for businesses in international trade.

Jefferies’ data puts global container freight rates at roughly US$2,000 to US$2,500 in February 2026, after a period of relatively low levels in early 2026. By October 2026 they were around US$4,000 to US$4,500. An accompanying chart shows rates falling well below their 2021-22 highs, recovering during 2024, easing through much of 2025 and early 2026, and then climbing again in recent months.

Jefferies named the possible return of shipping lines to the Suez Canal, despite continuing Middle East tensions, as a key factor to monitor. Changes in shipping routes could affect global freight rates, so developments in the region matter for businesses that depend on international cargo movement.

This story was originally published by Maritime Gateway. Read the full story at Maritime Gateway →