How CMA CGM & Maersk Are Pushing Rate Hikes on Europe & South Asia Routes

Carriers Double Down on Europe & South Asia as Transpacific Rates Collapse

June 17, 2025 – While US West Coast rates crash, major carriers are aggressively pushing increases on other trade lanes:

1. CMA CGM's Europe FAK Surge

New Rates Effective July 1:

• $2,250/TEU (20' dry) → $500 increase vs June 15 levels

• $4,100/FEU (40'/HC/reefer) → $1,000 increase

Scope:

• Origin: All Asian ports (including Japan/SE Asia/Bangladesh)

• Destination: Full range of North Europe (UK to Finland/Estonia)

• Covers: Dry, OOG, paid empties, reefers

⏳ Valid Until: July 15 (latest)

2. Maersk's South Asia PSS Strike

Peak Season Surcharge:

• $1,000-$1,400 per container (varies by sub-region)

• Targets: India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh shipments

Context:

• SCFI shows Europe up 10.6%, South America up 19.3% weekly

• Contrasts with 26.5% plunge in US West Coast rates

3 Key Takeaways for Shippers

1️⃣ Diversify Routing: Consider Mediterranean transshipment for Europe-bound cargo
2️⃣ Pre-July Rush: Book South Asia shipments before PSS implementation
3️⃣ FAK vs Contract: Verify if FAK applies to your agreement type

Why This Matters:

• Strategic Insight: Reveals carriers' lane-by-lane pricing power disparity

• Urgency: July 1 deadline creates time-sensitive decisions

• Visual Potential: Map graphic could show divergent global rate trends

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