The Ningbo Containerised Freight Index (NCFI), compiled by the Ningbo Shipping Exchange and promoted by the Baltic Exchange, recorded mixed movements in the latest reporting period ending August 22, 2025. The weekly composite index tracks freight rates for 20ft, 40ft, and Hi Cube containers and offers a snapshot of market dynamics across key shipping lanes originating from Ningbo, China.
This week’s data shows that while rates to European and Mediterranean destinations continued to decline, there was a sharp rebound in the Middle East route.
Freight Rates Overview
- Ningbo to Europe: Rates dropped by 8.83%, falling from 1,188.69 to 1,083.74 points. This lane, which serves ports such as Hamburg and Rotterdam, has shown consistent weakness in recent weeks, reflecting softening demand or overcapacity in the European import market.
- Ningbo to West Mediterranean: Rates fell by 3.45% to 1,234.53. Ports served on this route include Barcelona, Valencia, and Genoa, where moderate declines continue to indicate a lack of significant market recovery.
- Ningbo to East Mediterranean: Freight rates declined 3.51%, settling at 938.15. The route, serving Piraeus and Istanbul, has also seen a gradual decline amid regional economic and logistics fluctuations.
- Ningbo to Middle East: In contrast to the other lanes, this route experienced a strong surge, climbing 13.78% to 1,187.84. Serving key Middle Eastern ports such as Dammam and Dubai, the increase likely reflects growing seasonal demand or tightening space availability.
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Source: Baltic Exchange
