We’re still in the Lunar New Year holiday slowdown period, so ocean rates have remained unchanged. But we could expect demand and rates to increase post-LNY, per Freightos.

Despite the ongoing Israel-Palestine ceasefire and the Houthis’ announcement that it plans to cease attacks in the region while peace talks continue, major carriers have no immediate plans to return to the Red Sea citing security risks.  

E-commerce shipments account for an estimated 50 -60% of China – US air cargo volumes, with total air cargo capacity out of China increasing 25% year-on-year in 2024, per Freightos Air Index.  If the US cuts the de minimis exception, air cargo could see a surge in available capacity.