★出货量激增带动运价跳涨 外贸企业接新订单趋谨慎

Core Viewpoint - The recent reduction of tariffs between China and the U.S. has led to a surge in shipping demand, particularly for routes to the U.S., resulting in significant increases in freight rates and a near-complete booking of shipping capacity by the end of May [1][2][4]. Group 1: Shipping Demand and Capacity - Since the issuance of the joint statement on May 12, there has been a dramatic increase in shipping demand, with booking volumes for U.S. routes rising 2 to 3 times compared to before the announcement [1][2]. - By the end of May, shipping capacity for routes to the U.S. was nearly sold out, with freight rates increasing by over 40% [1][2]. - The demand surge is attributed to U.S. importers placing large orders starting May 13, leading to a temporary capacity overload on routes from China to the U.S. [2]. Group 2: Freight Rate Increases - As of late May, freight rates for the West Coast of the U.S. reached approximately $3,500 per FEU, while rates for the East Coast were around $5,000 per FEU, both having increased by $1,000 per FEU since the beginning of the month [2]. - The Shanghai Shipping Exchange reported that as of May 23, freight rates for exports to the U.S. had risen by 6.0% and 5.3% for the West and East Coasts, respectively, with cumulative increases of about 40% and 30% compared to earlier in the month [2][3]. Group 3: Market Outlook and Diverging Opinions - The freight forwarding industry anticipates that rates will continue to rise in the short term, while foreign trade companies are more cautious, expecting that increased shipping capacity in June will lead to a price correction [5][6]. - There is a significant divergence in opinions between freight forwarders, who expect further rate increases, and foreign trade companies, which are adopting a more conservative approach due to uncertainties regarding future shipping costs and potential congestion at U.S. ports [5][6]. - The uncertainty surrounding tariffs and the long shipping cycles contribute to a cautious stance among foreign trade companies, leading to a slowdown in new order placements [6].