- First Suez transit in two years planned, but wider return still uncertain
- Global container throughput set to cross 1 billion TEU in 2025
- Orderbook climbs to 35% of fleet, keeping long-term supply pressure intact
One major carrier will make its first Suez Canal transit on 22 December, ending a two-year absence on the route. However, the move is being treated as a trial, not a full network shift. Most carriers remain cautious, and a broader return to Suez is not expected for at least another three months, reflecting ongoing security and operational concerns.
Demand Remains Strong Through 2025
Container cargo demand stayed resilient throughout 2025, with full-year throughput growth exceeding 5.1%. Global container volumes handled at ports worldwide are now expected to exceed 1 billion TEU for the first time, driven mainly by strong exports from China to regions outside the US, including Europe, Latin America, Africa, India and the Middle East.
Freight Rates Rebound, but Rally Still Fragile
Freight rates rebounded in mid-December, supported by strong year-end demand. However, the recovery remains tentative, as TEU-mile demand growth continues to trail supply growth, even though the gap narrowed slightly last week. Charter rates remain firm, helping support spot pricing in the near term.
Orderbook Expansion Clouds 2026 Outlook
New vessel orders placed in recent weeks have pushed the container ship orderbook to 35.0% of the existing fleet, highlighting carriers’ continued push for market share. While deliveries are spread over several years, this level of contracting raises concerns over future oversupply, especially as 2026 demand growth is forecast to slow to around 2.1% amid uneven global trade conditions.
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Source – Linerlytica
