International Shipping Trends - February 2, 2026 - MSC Launches New Pacific Route

February 2, 2026, 5:30 PM

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Highlights at a glance

The global shipping industry sees major shifts this week. MSC expands its Pacific network with a new dedicated service connecting Australia/New Zealand to the US East Coast, adding Wellington as a port of call. In a separate development, Maersk's APM Terminals has been appointed interim operator of Panama's key Balboa and Cristobal ports, taking over from Hutchison Ports after 25 years. Meanwhile, the Shanghai Containerized Freight Index fell sharply to 1316.75, with rates to US West Coast dropping 10.4% to $1,867/FEU, US East Coast down 10% to $2,605/FEU, Europe declining 11.1% to $1,418/TEU, and Mediterranean routes falling 12% to $2,424/TEU. These moves signal significant realignments in carrier networks and port operations amid softening global freight markets.

MSC Launches New Pacific Route

MsC plans next week to launch its newAustralia/New Zealand - US East Coastservice, introducing Wellington Port andexpanding its Pacific network with 1ldedicated vessels.

Maersk Takes Over Panama Ports

Maersk's APMT has been appointed as theinterim operator of Balboa and Cristobalports. The operation rights were previouslyheld by Hutchison Ports since 1997.

Global Shipping Rates Plummet

Shanghai's container index fell to 1316.75.Rates to US West fell 10.4% to $1867/FEU, USEast 10% to $2605/FEU, Europe 11.1% to$1418/TEU, and Mediterranean 12% to$2424/TEU.