The Drewry World Container Index rose 9% to $4,530 per 40-foot container, driven by rate increases on transpacific and Asia-Europe trade routes. Spot rates from Shanghai continued to strengthen, pushing the benchmark index higher.
Freight costs are a direct input cost for imported produce — from Chilean citrus and grapes to Peruvian blueberries and asparagus. A 9% single-week jump compounds an already elevated shipping environment and will put additional margin pressure on importers who haven't locked in rates.
This is on top of already-elevated freight noted in previous reporting. Buyers sourcing from Southern Hemisphere origins should factor rising logistics costs into landed price calculations and forward contract discussions.