The container ship charter market at a crossroads between stability and decline!
Sea News – Analytical Report on the New ConTex Index
Container Ship Charter Market Faces a Slight Decline in Week 6 of 2025
The container ship charter market experienced a relative decline in rates during the sixth week of 2025. The New ConTex Index, which serves as a benchmark for assessing charter rates in the global market, fell by 0.6% to 1,412 points. This decline follows a 0.7% decrease compared to a month ago; however, the index has shown a 113% increase compared to the same period last year. This dual trend reflects both a short-term market correction and sustained medium- to long-term demand strength.
Which Ships Experienced the Highest Rate Increases and Decreases?
An analysis of charter rate changes across different timeframes shows that smaller vessels (1,100 and 1,700 TEU) performed better, with slight rate increases, while medium-sized vessels (2,500, 2,700, and 3,500 TEU) saw the most significant declines. This shift is likely due to fleet strategy adjustments and a return to equilibrium after the sharp rate increases in recent months.
- 1,100 TEU: +0.5%, reaching $14,795 per day for a 6-month charter.
- 1,700 TEU: -0.1%, recorded at $26,150 per day for a 6-month charter.
- 2,500 TEU: -1.4%, down to $31,041 per day for a 12-month charter.
- 2,700 TEU: -1.7%, reaching $33,477 per day for a 12-month charter.
- 3,500 TEU: -0.6%, declining to $41,025 per day for a 12-month charter.
- 4,250 TEU: -0.4%, recorded at $52,780 per day for a 12-month charter.
Why Did Charter Rates Decline?
Analysts believe that this decline is more of a market correction rather than an indication of a downturn. After last year’s rapid rate surge, the current adjustment is driven by:
- Changes in shipping line strategies.
- Slightly lower demand on certain routes.
- Capacity management by shipowners.
However, larger vessels (5,700 and 6,500 TEU) experienced only minor declines, with some maintaining stable monthly rates. This indicates that demand for larger ships remains strong, as they are preferred by shipping lines due to fuel efficiency and lower operational costs on long-haul routes.
Market Outlook: Stability or Further Decline?
Although the market has seen recent corrections, fundamentals remain strong. Key factors shaping the market include:
- Capacity management by shipowners, preventing sharp rate drops.
- Sustained demand for larger vessels, keeping them in a stronger position than smaller ships.
- No rapid return to past low rates, as operational costs and fuel prices remain high.
Overall, while minor declines may continue for some vessel classes in the coming weeks, charter rates are expected to remain at favorable levels, and the container ship charter market is likely to maintain its stable trajectory.
