07.07.2026
1. Asia Enters Peak Season: Increasing Pressure on Supply Chains
In its July market update, Maersk notes the early start of the peak shipping season. Ongoing disruptions in the Middle East, tariff policy changes, and growing cargo volumes are increasing pressure on both ocean and air supply chains. Transit times may fluctuate, while inland logistics networks are expected to face additional strain.
Impact on business
- Container and air shipments should be booked in advance.
- Additional fuel and peak season surcharges are possible.
- Alternative routing is becoming increasingly important.
What to monitor
- New GRI/PSS surcharges.
- Changes to ocean service schedules.
- Conditions at the transshipment hubs of Singapore and Port Klang.
2. India Expands Container Capacity
Several important developments have taken place in India. PSA Mumbai has surpassed 13 million TEU in cumulative container throughput, while new container terminals and inland logistics hubs continue to be developed. In addition, CONCOR has launched a new container train service, and Adani Logistics has handled its first import shipment through a new inland terminal.
Impact on business
- Higher capacity across India's logistics network.
- Expanded import and export opportunities.
- Reduced pressure on certain congested hubs.
What to monitor
- Launch of new container services.
- Development of Inland Container Depots (ICDs).
3. Ocean Freight Rates Remain Under Pressure
According to Dimerco, freight rates on the Asia-Europe and Asia-USA trades continue to rise. Key drivers include limited vessel capacity, blank sailings, congestion at transshipment ports, and additional fuel surcharges.
Impact on business
- Ocean freight costs may continue to increase throughout July.
- There is a higher risk of cargo being rolled to later sailings.
- Long-term shipment planning is becoming even more important.
What to monitor
- Port conditions in Singapore and Port Klang.
- New carrier surcharges.
- Spot freight rate developments.
4. New China-India Ocean Service Gains Momentum
Maersk's new weekly FI2 service continues to strengthen connections between Eastern and Southern China and Northwestern India. The service links Shanghai, Ningbo, Nansha, Nhava Sheva, Pipavav and other major ports, providing additional capacity for automotive, chemical, technology and retail cargo.
Impact on business
- Increased capacity on the China-India trade lane.
- More routing options for shippers.
- Reduced risk of equipment shortages.
What to monitor
- Service utilization levels.
- Possible expansion of the port rotation.
5. Key Trend of the Week: Companies Diversify Supply Chains
High transportation costs, tariff changes and regional disruptions are driving companies to diversify supply chains through multimodal transport, alternative routes and new manufacturing locations. Supply chain resilience is becoming just as important as transportation cost.
Impact on business
- Growing demand for integrated logistics solutions.
- Greater importance of flexible supply chain planning.
- Reduced dependence on a single route or region.
What to monitor
- New trade restrictions.
- Customs and regulatory changes.
- Development of alternative international transport corridors.
Key Takeaways for International Trade Participants Today
- The start of the peak season requires early booking of container and air shipments.
- India continues to strengthen its position as one of Asia's key logistics hubs through the development of ports and inland terminals.
- Ocean freight rates remain under pressure due to limited capacity and congestion at transshipment hubs.
- The new FI2 service expands delivery options between China and India, which is especially important for manufacturers and importers working on this trade lane.
