DHL – Ocean Freight Market Update, Mar 2025

The Ocean Freight Market Update for March 2025 highlights significant changes and developments in the industry. Key updates include the implementation of the EU's ICS2 electronic security screening system for maritime, road, and rail transport from April 1, 2025, and India's launch of the Bharat Container Line with 100 ships and a $2.9 billion Maritime Development Fund. The SHIPS for America Act in the US mandates 10% of cargo from China to be transported on US-flagged vessels. Post-Lunar New Year, freight rates have decreased, with GRI announcements on several routes from March 1. Increasing port congestion in Europe may affect capacity availability in April. Long-term global container traffic is expected to grow by 3.6% annually from 2024 to 2028, adding approximately 6.1 million TEU annually in 2025-2028, primarily in the Asia-Pacific region. Political uncertainty may negatively impact the economy, slowing global GDP growth.