Hapag-Lloyd CEO Rolf Habben Jansen noted a significant increase in demand for container transport across the world’s oceans in recent weeks, attributing it to restocking, high customer demand, and early deliveries in preparation for the upcoming peak season. However, he believes this uptick is only short-lived due to uncertainty regarding the second half of the year. Prices for short-term deliveries have risen unexpectedly in the past four to six weeks, possibly influenced by an increase in US tariffs.
With around 280 ships, Hapag-Lloyd is the fifth largest shipping company globally, with a focus on connections to North America. The disruption caused by the situation in the Red Sea, leading major shipping companies to avoid the Suez Canal, is expected to ease by the end of the year according to the CEO. Despite the current increase in demand, he does not anticipate it lasting until the end of the year.
The CEO highlighted the challenges in the industry and emphasized the temporary nature of the current upturn in demand, cautioning against booking the same container multiple times. While uncertainties persist, Hapag-Lloyd remains prepared for the fluctuations in the shipping market and continues to adapt to changing conditions.
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