The Drewry World Container Index (WCI) declined for the third consecutive week, falling 3% to US$4,255 per 40-foot container. The decline was driven by lower spot rates on the Asia-Europe and Transpacific trade lanes. On the Shanghai–Los Angeles route, rates fell 2% to US$5,739 per FEU. Meanwhile, rates from Shanghai to New York remained unchanged at US$7,578 per FEU. Drewry said softer demand and slower front-loading activity prompted carriers to continue managing capacity through blank sailings. Eight blank sailings are scheduled on the Transpacific trade next week, compared with seven this week. On the Asia-Europe route, rates from Shanghai to Genoa declined 6% to US$5,630 per FEU. Rates from Shanghai to Rotterdam also fell 3% to US$4,667 per FEU. Carriers continue to use blank sailings to limit further rate declines. Drewry expects freight rates on the Asia-Europe trade to remain stable in the coming week. The consultancy said the East-West container market remains under pressure as demand softens following the implementation of new US tariff measures. At the same time, geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have prompted several carriers to introduce Emergency Fuel Surcharges (EFS) from August. Carriers also continue to adjust capacity through blank sailings and service changes. Drewry said uncertainty over global trade policy, geopolitical developments and port congestion is expected to continue influencing freight rates in the coming weeks. The post Drewry World Container Index falls for third consecutive week appeared first on Container News .