After a period of sustained increases through late 2025, intra-Asia container freight rates have begun to cool as carriers introduce new services and add capacity across key regional trade lanes.
According to market intelligence from Drewry’s Intra-Asia Container Index, average freight rates moderated in the first two weeks of January, reflecting a softening from recent highs and the impact of expanded carrier networks and additional vessel deployments.
This adjustment follows a strong finish to 2025 during which demand and tight capacity pushed rates upwards. As carriers roll out new routes and bring more space into the intra-Asia market, the freight rate correction suggests that supply is catching up with underlying cargo flows — offering much-needed relief to shippers after last year’s rapid price growth.
Key trends shaping the intra-Asia market include:
- New services entering the market, particularly on China–Southeast Asia corridors, boosting overall regional capacity and providing additional options for cargo movement.
- Freight rate correction, with average intra-Asia 40-ft container rates easing from their peak late last year as capacity expands.
- Industry momentum heading into early 2026, with carriers adapting networks to balance supply and demand and support shippers navigating seasonal demand and contract negotiations.
For U-Freight clients and partners, these developments may translate into more competitive intra-Asia pricing, increased booking flexibility and expanded service choices in the coming months.
For more information about U-Freight’s intra-Asia freight and logistics services, please visit the relevant pages of this website or contact your local office, details of which can be seen here: https://ufreight.com/locations
Stay tuned for ongoing market updates and strategic insights to help optimise your regional logistics planning.
