Welcome to the HAI International Holding Global Market Monthly Update, your essential resource for navigating freight market trends across multiple regions.
This comprehensive guide provides clear insights, detailed data, and actionable recommendations to optimize your logistics strategy as of March 03, 2025.Whether you’re a new importer or a seasoned logistics professional, you’ll find precise rate details and expert analysis for informed decision-making.
What to Expect and How to Use This Guide
This guide simplifies complex rate changes into clear, actionable insights covering key regions including the Mediterranean, Europe (Main Ports and Other Ports), Oceania, ASEAN, South Asia, East Asia, North America, and Africa.
What’s Inside?
- Key Market Trends: Highlights of forces shaping sea and air freight rates, from global demand shifts to capacity adjustments.
- Freight Rate Changes by Region: Comprehensive tables with current rates, percentage changes from March 2025, and regional rate ranges.
- Insights by Region: Expert analysis of trends and their impact on your shipping costs.
- Actionable Conclusions: Practical recommendations to seize cost-saving opportunities and plan effectively.
How to Use This Guide
- Identify Your Region: Focus on the Mediterranean, Europe, or the specific markets of Oceania, ASEAN, South Asia, East Asia, North America, or Africa.
- Analyze Rate Trends: Review the tables to track shifts for sea freight (20GP/40GP or 40HQ where applicable) and air freight.
- Leverage Insights: Apply expert analysis to adjust shipment timing and budgets.
- Stay Ahead: Use our conclusions to proactively navigate the dynamic market.
Let’s dive into March 2025’s freight landscape together! 🚢✈️
Oceania, ASEAN, South Asia and East Asia Market
Key Trends
- Sea Freight Trends: Sharp declines in Oceania (e.g., Australia -47.8%) and ASEAN (e.g., Malaysia -47.0%), driven by post-peak season softening. South Asia experienced significant drops in India (-57.4%), while East Asia (e.g., Japan +6.3%) remained relatively stable.
- Air Freight Trends: General declines across most regions (e.g., ASEAN -21.1% in Malaysia), except in South Asia where rates surged (e.g., Sri Lanka +66.7%) due to rerouting or urgent demand shifts.
Key Market Drivers
- ASEAN Connectivity Initiatives: Efforts such as the ASEAN Single Window improve efficiency and lower costs, even though demand remains volatile.
- E-commerce Growth: The expansion of platforms like Shopee and Lazada is boosting air freight demand in the region.
- Capacity Constraints in Oceania: Post-Lunar New Year easing and improved port operations have led to significant drops in rates.
Freight Rate Changes by Region
Oceania (Australia, New Zealand)
| Port/Country | Container Type | Sea Freight Rate (USD) | Change (%) | Air Freight Rate (USD/kg) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney (Australia) | 20GP | 1,150 → 600 | -47.8% | 3.5 → 3.0 | -14.3% |
| 40GP | 2,250 → 1,050 | -53.3% | – | – | |
| Melbourne (Australia) | 20GP | 1,150 → 600 | -47.8% | 3.5 → 3.0 | -14.3% |
| 40GP | 2,250 → 1,050 | -53.3% | – | – | |
| Brisbane (Australia) | 20GP | 1,150 → 600 | -47.8% | 6.7 → 6.7 | 0.0% |
| 40GP | 2,250 → 1,050 | -53.3% | – | – | |
| Auckland (New Zealand) | 20GP | 1,200 → 850 | -29.2% | 3.5 → 4.0 | +14.3% |
| 40GP | 2,650 → 1,700 | -35.8% | – | – |
ASEAN (Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam)
| Port/Country | Container Type | Sea Freight Rate (USD) | Change (%) | Air Freight Rate (USD/kg) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Singapore | 20GP | 430 → 350 | -18.6% | 1.5 → 1.6 | +6.7% |
| 40GP | 830 → 650 | -21.7% | – | – | |
| Jakarta (Indonesia) | 20GP | 600 → 650 | +8.3% | 2.2 → 2.3 | +4.5% |
| 40GP | 1,070 → 1,150 | +7.5% | – | – | |
| Port Kelang (Malaysia) | 20GP | 700 → 400 | -42.9% | 1.9 → 1.5 | -21.1% |
| 40GP | 1,320 → 700 | -47.0% | – | – | |
| Manila (Philippines) | 20GP | 200 → 150 | -25.0% | 2.1 → 2.05 | -2.4% |
| 40GP | 350 → 250 | -28.6% | – | – | |
| Bangkok (Thailand) | 20GP | 400 → 350 | -12.5% | 2.0 → 1.5 | -25.0% |
| 40GP | 775 → 700 | -9.7% | – | – | |
| Ho Chi Minh (Vietnam) | 20GP | 230 → 200 | -13.0% | 2.0 → 1.8 | -10.0% |
| 40GP | 430 → 400 | -7.0% | – | – |
South Asia (India, Sri Lanka)
| Port/Country | Container Type | Sea Freight Rate (USD) | Change (%) | Air Freight Rate (USD/kg) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nhava Sheva (India) | 20GP | 2,230 → 950 | -57.4% | 3.5 → 4.2 | +20.0% |
| 40GP | 2,250 → 1,000 | -55.6% | – | – | |
| Colombo (Sri Lanka) | 20GP | 2,350 → 1,450 | -38.3% | 3.0 → 5.0 | +66.7% |
| 40GP | 2,450 → 1,550 | -36.7% | – | – |
East Asia (Japan)
| Port/Country | Container Type | Sea Freight Rate (USD) | Change (%) | Air Freight Rate (USD/kg) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tokyo (Japan) | 20GP | 425 → 450 | +5.9% | 2.4 → 2.3 | -4.2% |
| 40GP | 800 → 850 | +6.3% | – | – |
Insights by Region (Oceania, ASEAN, South Asia, East Asia)
- Oceania: Sharp declines in sea freight rates in Australia and moderate decreases in New Zealand, although air freight in New Zealand shows a slight increase.
- ASEAN: Significant reductions in maritime rates across most markets, with mixed air freight trends.
- South Asia: Dramatic drops in sea freight contrasted by a marked increase in air freight, especially in Sri Lanka.
- East Asia: Japan’s sea freight rates have risen slightly while air freight has declined, reflecting stable trade networks.
Conclusion and Implications for Importers (Oceania, ASEAN, South Asia, East Asia)
The data from March 2025 in these regions reveals a dynamic freight landscape.
Oceania and ASEAN offer notable savings on sea freight, while the increase in air freight costs in South Asia suggests a shift toward maritime transport.
East Asia remains stable, allowing for predictable planning.
Importers should adjust their strategies by capitalizing on lower sea freight rates and modifying shipment methods in regions with rising air freight costs.
Europe and Mediterranean Region Market
Key Trends
- Mediterranean: Declines in both sea and air freight rates at ports such as Genoa and Barcelona, due to post-winter demand softening or excess capacity.
- Main European Ports: Marked increases in sea freight rates at hubs like Southampton and Antwerp, while air freight rates have fallen, indicating a shift towards maritime transport.
- Other European Ports: Stable to declining rates, reflecting market normalization in ports such as Gdansk and Basel.
- External Influences: Events such as floods in Spain, rising Asia-Europe container rates, and potential Middle East ceasefire talks are key factors influencing freight dynamics.
Mediterranean (Italy, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Egypt)
Freight Rate Details
| Port/Country | Container Type | Sea Freight Rate (USD) | Change (%) | Air Freight Rate (USD/kg) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Genoa (Italy) | 20GP | 2,950 → 2,250 | -23.7% | 3.5 → 2.5 | -28.6% |
| 40GP | 4,650 → 3,610 | -22.4% | – | – | |
| Barcelona (Spain) | 20GP | 2,950 → 2,450 | -16.9% | 4.1 → 2.9 | -29.3% |
| 40GP | 4,600 → 4,260 | -7.4% | – | – | |
| Istanbul (Turkey) | 20GP | 3,000 → 2,650 | -11.7% | 5.5 → 4.1 | -25.5% |
| 40GP | 4,500 → 4,450 | -1.1% | – | – |
Rate Ranges (March 2025):
Sea Freight: 20GP: USD 2,250 – 2,650 | 40GP: USD 3,610 – 4,450
Air Freight: USD 2.50 – 4.10 per kg
Europe (Main Ports: United Kingdom, Netherlands, France, Germany, Belgium)
Freight Rate Details
| Port/Country | Container Type | Sea Freight Rate (USD) | Change (%) | Air Freight Rate (USD/kg) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southampton (UK) | 20GP | 1,800 → 2,420 | +34.4% | 3.4 → 3.0 (LHR) | -11.8% |
| 40GP | 3,175 → 4,260 | +34.2% | – | – | |
| Rotterdam (Netherlands) | 20GP | 1,800 → 1,800 | 0% | – | – |
| 40GP | 3,175 → 3,175 | 0% | – | – | |
| Le Havre (France) | 20GP | 1,800 → 1,800 | 0% | 4.1 → 4.0* | -2.4%* |
| 40GP | 3,180 → 3,120 | -1.9% | – | – | |
| Hamburg (Germany) | 20GP | 1,800 → 1,800 | 0% | 5.0 → 2.37 | -52.6% |
| 40GP | 3,175 → 3,150 | -0.8% | – | – | |
| Antwerp (Belgium) | 20GP | 1,800 → 2,420 | +34.4% | – | – |
| 40GP | 3,175 → 4,260 | +34.2% | – | – |
Rate Ranges (March 2025):
Sea Freight: 20GP: USD 1,800 – 2,420 | 40GP: USD 3,120 – 4,260
Air Freight: USD 2.37 – 4.00 per kg
Europe (Other Ports: Switzerland, Poland, Austria, Denmark, Hungary, Ireland, Norway)
Freight Rate Details
| Port/Country | Container Type | Sea Freight Rate (USD) | Change (%) | Air Freight Rate (USD/kg) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basel (Switzerland) | 20GP | 2,950 → 2,420 | -18.0% | 3.82 → 3.5 | -8.4% |
| 40GP | 4,600 → 4,260 | -7.4% | – | – | |
| Gdansk (Poland) | 20GP | 2,900 → 2,420 | -16.6% | 6.6 → 2.5 | -62.1% |
| 40GP | 4,600 → 4,260 | -7.4% | – | – |
Rate Ranges (March 2025):
Sea Freight: 20GP: ~USD 2,420 | 40GP: ~USD 4,260
Air Freight: USD 2.50 – 3.50 per kg
Insights and Event Links
- Mediterranean: Lower sea and air rates offer cost-saving opportunities, though importers should monitor Spain’s flood recovery. Event Link: Valencia Floods Update (EAA Network)
- Main Ports: Rising sea freight costs in hubs like Southampton and Antwerp contrast with Le Havre’s stability and lower air rates. Event Link: Asia-Europe Container Rates on the Rise (EAA Network)
- Other Ports: Declining rates across both modes provide cost benefits, with dramatic air freight drops in Poland. Event Link: Container Futures Plunge on Ceasefire Fears (EAA Network)
North America Region Market
Key Trends
- USA: Sharp declines in both sea and air freight (e.g., Los Angeles, New York) indicate reduced demand or increased capacity.
- Canada: Consistent reductions point to improved port efficiency and lower import volumes.
- Mexico: Moderate adjustments with slight increases in sea freight at some ports, while air freight declines overall.
- International Influences: A global trade slowdown, port infrastructure investments, and USMCA dynamics are impacting the market.
Freight Rate Changes by Region
USA
| Port/Country | Container Type | Sea Freight Rate (USD) | Change (%) | Air Freight Rate (USD/kg) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles/Long Beach | 20GP | 3,850 → 1,550 | -59.7% | 4.9 → 3.0 | -38.8% |
| 40GP | 4,570 → 1,950 | -57.3% | – | – | |
| New York/Savannah/Norfolk | 20GP | 4,950 → 2,850 | -42.4% | 6.4 → 5.0 | -21.9% |
| 40GP | 6,250 → 3,050 | -51.2% | – | – | |
| Miami | Air Freight Rate Only | – | – | 7.0 → 5.0 | -28.6% |
Canada
| Port/Country | Container Type | Sea Freight Rate (USD) | Change (%) | Air Freight Rate (USD/kg) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toronto | 20GP | 5,950 → 3,900 | -34.5% | 6.2 → 5.0 | -19.4% |
| 40GP | 6,850 → 4,950 | -27.7% | – | – | |
| Montreal | 20GP | 5,950 → 3,900 | -34.5% | 7.5 → 5.0 | -33.3% |
| 40GP | 6,850 → 4,950 | -27.7% | – | – | |
| Vancouver | Air Freight Rate Only | – | – | 6.2 → 5.0 | -19.4% |
Mexico
| Port/Country | Container Type | Sea Freight Rate (USD) | Change (%) | Air Freight Rate (USD/kg) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manzanillo | 20GP | 1,400 → 1,650 | +17.9% | 9.0 → 7.0 | -22.2% |
| 40GP | 1,650 → 1,800 | +9.1% | – | – | |
| Lazaro Cardenas | 20GP | 1,400 → 1,550 | +10.7% | 8.2 → 7.0 | -14.6% |
| 40GP | 1,650 → 1,600 | -3.0% | – | – | |
| Guadalajara | Air Freight Rate Only | – | – | 8.2 → 7.0 | -14.6% |
| Monterrey | Air Freight Rate Only | – | – | 8.2 → 7.0 | -14.6% |
Insights by Region (North America)
- USA: Sharp declines in sea freight (e.g., Los Angeles -59.7% for 20GP, New York -51.2% for 40GP) indicate an excess of capacity or reduced import demand, while air freight rates have also dropped significantly.
- Canada: Consistent reductions suggest improved port efficiency and lower trade volumes.
- Mexico: Mixed sea freight trends—slight increases in some ports contrasted with overall air freight declines—point to localized demand spikes amid overall softening.
Conclusion (North America)
The North America market in March 2025 shows significant rate reductions, particularly in the USA and Canada, while Mexico experiences more moderate adjustments.
Importers can capitalize on lower maritime rates and remain alert to local variations.
Africa Region Market
Key Trends
- West and South Africa: Significant declines in sea freight rates in West Africa (e.g., Ghana, Senegal) and South Africa (e.g., Durban, Cape Town), likely due to reduced demand or increased shipping capacity. Air freight rates have also dropped notably, offering cost-saving opportunities.
- East Africa: Sea freight rates surged in East Africa (e.g., Kenya, Uganda) reflecting increased demand or supply constraints, while air freight rates experienced sharp declines.
- Central and North Africa: Mixed trends are observed: Central Africa shows moderate increases in sea freight with stable air freight rates, whereas North Africa experiences significant drops in both, suggesting a market correction.
Freight Rate Changes by Region
West Africa
| Port/Country | Container Type | Sea Freight Rate (USD) | Change (%) | Air Freight Rate (USD/kg) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ghana (Tema) | 20GP | 3,650 → 3,150 | -13.7% | 7.5 → 6.6 | -12.0% |
| 40GP | 4,250 → 3,400 | -20.0% | – | – | |
| Nigeria (Apapa) | 20GP | 4,150 → 4,000 | -3.6% | 7.5 → 6.0 | -20.0% |
| 40GP | 4,800 → 4,400 | -8.3% | – | – | |
| Nigeria (Tincan) | 20GP | 4,200 → 4,050 | -3.6% | – | – |
| 40GP | 4,800 → 4,500 | -6.3% | – | – | |
| Ivory Coast (Abidjan) | 20GP | 3,300 → 3,100 | -6.1% | 8.0 → 8.0 | 0.0% |
| 40GP | 3,800 → 3,400 | -10.5% | – | – | |
| Senegal (Dakar) | 20GP | 4,600 → 4,100 | -10.9% | 7.8 → 6.6 | -15.4% |
| 40GP | 5,600 → 4,600 | -17.9% | – | – | |
| Togo (Lome) | 20GP | 3,300 → 3,150 | -4.5% | 7.8 → 7.8 | 0.0% |
| 40GP | 3,800 → 3,500 | -7.9% | – | – |
East Africa
| Port/Country | Container Type | Sea Freight Rate (USD) | Change (%) | Air Freight Rate (USD/kg) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kenya (Mombasa) | 20GP | 1,250 → 1,850 | +48.0% | 6.2 → 5.6 | -9.7% |
| 40GP | 1,400 → 2,300 | +64.3% | – | – | |
| Rwanda (Kigali) | 20GP | 5,550 → 5,900 | +6.3% | 14.3 → 7.0 | -51.0% |
| 40GP | 5,800 → 6,450 | +11.2% | – | – | |
| Uganda (Kampala) | 20GP | 4,210 → 4,810 | +14.3% | 6.5 → 5.0 | -23.1% |
| 40GP | 4,470 → 5,370 | +20.1% | – | – |
Central Africa
| Port/Country | Container Type | Sea Freight Rate (USD) | Change (%) | Air Freight Rate (USD/kg) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Congo (Matadi) | 20GP | 4,850 → 5,350 | +10.3% | 7.5 → 7.0 | -6.7% |
| 40GP | 6,400 → 6,650 | +3.9% | – | – |
South Africa
| Port/Country | Container Type | Sea Freight Rate (USD) | Change (%) | Air Freight Rate (USD/kg) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Durban | 20GP | 2,980 → 2,200 | -26.2% | 6.5 → 5.0 | -23.1% |
| 40HQ | 3,550 → 2,600 | -26.8% | – | – | |
| Cape Town | 20GP | 3,080 → 2,300 | -25.3% | – | – |
| 40HQ | 3,750 → 2,800 | -25.3% | – | – |
North Africa
| Port/Country | Container Type | Sea Freight Rate (USD) | Change (%) | Air Freight Rate (USD/kg) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sudan | 20GP | 5,870 → 3,800 | -35.3% | 9.0 → 5.0 | -44.4% |
| 40GP | 7,620 → 5,000 | -34.4% | – | – |
Insights by Region (Africa)
- West Africa: Significant declines in both sea and air freight indicate reduced import urgency or increased shipping capacity.
- East Africa: The sharp rise in sea freight rates (e.g., Kenya +64.3% for 40GP) combined with the drop in air freight indicates increased demand shifting toward maritime transport.
- Central Africa: Slight increases in sea freight contrast with a minor drop in air freight.
- South Africa: Consistent declines in both modes offer cost advantages.
- North Africa: Dramatic drops in both sea and air freight signal a market correction, possibly due to easing geopolitical tensions.
Conclusion (Africa)
Across Africa, varied trends are observed:
West and South Africa offer significant cost reductions, East Africa experiences rising sea freight costs despite falling air rates, and North Africa shows dramatic drops.
Importers should adjust their strategies based on these regional dynamics.
Summary and Strategic Outlook
March 2025 presents a diverse freight market landscape.
While the Mediterranean and European markets offer both opportunities and challenges with contrasting trends, the new data from Oceania, ASEAN, South Asia, East Asia, North America, and Africa reveal dynamic shifts driven by seasonal factors, geopolitical developments, and capacity changes.
Importers can optimize their logistics strategy by:
– Locking in lower sea freight rates in regions where they are observed (e.g., Oceania, ASEAN, West and South Africa).
– Allocating a larger budget for air freight in areas where rates are increasing (notably in South Asia).
– Leveraging stable markets (such as in East Asia and parts of Europe) for predictable planning.
– Monitoring external events (e.g., flood recoveries, geopolitical developments) to adjust shipment schedules.
For more details or personalized advice, please contact the HAI International Holding team!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the HAI International Holding Global Market Monthly Update?
It is a comprehensive report that provides the latest trends and insights on sea and air freight rates across the Mediterranean and European regions. It is designed to help both new and experienced importers make informed logistics decisions.
Which regions does the update cover?
The update focuses on three main areas: the Mediterranean region (including Italy, Spain, Greece, Turkey, and Egypt), Europe’s main ports (such as those in the United Kingdom, Netherlands, France, Germany, and Belgium), and Europe’s other ports (covering countries like Switzerland, Poland, Austria, Denmark, Hungary, Ireland, and Norway).
How are the freight rates presented in the update?
Freight rates are detailed for both sea and air modes. They include current rates, the percentage change from the previous month, and regional rate ranges for various container types (20GP/40GP for sea freight).
What factors are influencing current freight rate trends?
Several factors impact the trends, including post-winter demand adjustments, seasonal normalization, external events like floods in Spain, geopolitical developments, and shifts in global container shipping dynamics.
How can I use this update to optimize my logistics strategy?
By analyzing the detailed rate trends and expert insights provided, you can identify cost-saving opportunities, adjust shipment timing, and diversify your shipping routes. The update also includes actionable recommendations tailored to different regions.
Who should I contact if I need further information or a personalized strategy?
For more detailed insights or a strategy tailored to your specific needs, please reach out to the HAI International Holding team via our contact page or through our customer support channels.
