Home / Business and Economy / Asian Liners Gain as Mideast Conflict Disrupts Trade
Asian Liners Gain as Mideast Conflict Disrupts Trade
17 Mar
Summary
- Shipping rates see consecutive weekly growth due to Mideast conflict.
- Asian container lines poised for sequential spot rate improvements.
- Conflict causes transit halts, higher fuel, and port congestion risks.
Global shipping rates have seen a notable increase, rising 8.4% to $2,123 per 40-foot container in the week ending March 12, 2026, marking the second consecutive week of growth. This surge is largely attributed to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which have effectively dashed hopes for a swift reopening of the Red Sea shipping route. Asian container lines, such as Orient Overseas International Ltd. and Evergreen Marine Corp., are anticipating sequential improvements in spot rates through the middle of 2026.
The ongoing conflict is significantly disrupting global supply chains. Liners are grappling with transit halts, increased fuel costs, and complex transshipment arrangements, leading to additional pressure on port operations and a heightened risk of congestion. Major carriers, including Cosco Shipping Holdings Co. and Evergreen Marine, have suspended Middle East bookings.
Despite these challenges, Chinese and Taiwanese liners may possess an advantage due to their cost leadership and aggressive scaling strategies, positioning them favorably against global peers. Furthermore, lines with a stronger presence on China-dominated routes benefit from the resilience of Chinese exports, which saw faster-than-expected growth in the first two months of 2026.
