The Impact of Global Developments on the Container Ship Charter Market

shipping Association of iran– The New ConTex Index is one of the key benchmarks for evaluating container ship charter rates in the maritime transport market. This index assesses rental rates for various types of container ships with different capacities and lease durations. This report analyzes the latest data released on January 23, 2025.

The New ConTex Index experienced slight changes in the week ending January 23, 2025. Overall, the index decreased by 1 point compared to the previous week, reaching 1429 points. This change reflects relative stability in the container ship charter market.

However, two significant events in the current week may impact the market:

• Ceasefire Agreement between Israel and Hamas: This agreement could prompt shipping companies to once again use the Suez Canal, which may shorten travel times and reduce the need for additional vessels.
• Political Developments in the United States: Changes related to the new U.S. government and tariff policies may affect cargo volumes and trade patterns.

Analysis of Charter Rates by Ship Type

Below are the charter rates for different types of container ships:

1,100 TEU Ships:

• 6-month lease rate: $14,750 (a 0.1% decrease from the previous week).
• 12-month lease rate: $13,984 (a 0.4% decrease from the previous week).

1,700 TEU Ships:

• 6-month lease rate: $26,292 (a 0.2% increase from the previous week).
• 12-month lease rate: $22,873 (a 1.0% increase from the previous week).

1,800 TEU Ships:

• 6-month lease rate: $30,145 (a 0.1% increase from the previous week).
• 12-month lease rate: $31,709 (a 0.3% increase from the previous week).

2,500 TEU Ships:

• 24-month lease rate: $26,364 (a 0.6% decrease from the previous week).
• 12-month lease rate: $34,386 (a 0.2% decrease from the previous week).

2,700 TEU Ships:

• 24-month lease rate: $28,232 (a 0.2% decrease from the previous week).
• 12-month lease rate: $41,502 (a 0.3% decrease from the previous week).

3,500 TEU Ships:

• 24-month lease rate: $33,350 (a 0.2% decrease from the previous week).
• 12-month lease rate: $33,135 (no change compared to the previous week).

4,250 TEU Ships:

• 24-month lease rate: $41,025 (a 0.8% decrease from the previous week).
• 12-month lease rate: $60,850 (a 0.5% increase from the previous week).

5,700 TEU Ships:

• 12-month lease rate: $68,033 (a 0.5% increase from the previous week).

Annual Trend Analysis

Compared to the previous year (January 25, 2024), charter rates for all ship categories have seen significant increases. For example:

• 1,100 TEU Ships: 79.4% increase for the 6-month lease and 84.4% increase for the 12-month lease.
• 1,700 TEU Ships: 154.9% increase for the 6-month lease and 137.9% increase for the 12-month lease.
• 5,700 TEU Ships: 151.8% increase for the 12-month lease.

These increases indicate an improvement in the maritime transport market following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Given recent developments, including the ceasefire agreement in the Middle East and political changes in the United States, the container ship charter market may face more fluctuations in the coming weeks. Additionally, the approach of the Chinese New Year may cause a temporary reduction in business activities.

The New ConTex Index shows relative stability this week, but political and economic developments may influence market trends. Charter rates for most ships have significantly increased compared to last year, signaling recovery in the maritime transport market. However, the market may experience more volatility in the coming weeks.

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