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Container shipping is facing pressure as hopes for a robust peak season diminish.

The earlier scenario of importers relying heavily on the spot market and shipping lines reducing trans-Pacific capacity has changed. Inventory destocking has lasted longer than anticipated, and concerns about consumer demand are mounting.

Spot rates, which initially rose in mid-April, have since weakened and remain extremely low.

Expectations for the peak season now lean toward a moderate performance similar to pre-COVID levels. The pricing of new trans-Pacific annual agreements is significantly lower than previous contracts.

While carriers anticipate a rise in volumes in the second half due to inventory restocking, concerns remain about potential decreases in consumer demand. The timing and duration of the peak season, including holiday goods imports, are also uncertain.

Overall, the container shipping industry faces challenges and uncertainties as it navigates through the evolving market conditions.