Ports

India-Middle East Container Rates Surge 25-40% Amid Regional Port Disruptions

Container freight rates from India to the Middle East have climbed sharply since late August, driven by vessel capacity constraints and operational disruptions at regional ports. Spot rates from JNPA in Mumbai to Saudi Arabia's Dammam have reached $8,500 per TEU and $9,500 per 40ft, up from $5,800 and $6,800 respectively. Routes to Jebel Ali show average rates of $5,500 per TEU and $7,400 per 40ft, representing 25% increases month-over-month. Some mainline carriers are quoting $10,000 per 40ft for shipments to Umm Qasr in Iraq. Major carriers including Hapag-Lloyd and MSC are redirecting traffic through Umm Qasr and alternative gateways as congestion persists across Khor Fakkan, Fujairah and Sohar. CMA CGM introduced emergency fuel surcharges beginning October 1, with $265 per TEU and $320 per reefer TEU on the head-haul, and $75 and $90 respectively on the back-haul.