April saw carriers begin announcing blank sailing programs on major lanes, while Middle East routing uncertainty started affecting Gulf bookings. Both have developed further in May.

The Middle East conflict that began in late February continues to define the operating environment for China export shipping in April. 

A container we shipped to the Gulf earlier this month came back with $3,000 in surcharges on top of the agreed freight rate — after the booking was confirmed and the cargo was already at port. That figure has since moved higher.

Five market shifts define March 2026 for China importers. This update covers what has changed, how conditions are expected to develop through the month, and what operational decisions need to be made now.

Ocean freight rates from China fell 8-10% in early February to $2,100-2,300 per FEU on USWC lanes. Chinese New Year and Ramadan now overlap, creating a 5-week logistics shutdown affecting production, port operations, and customs clearance through late March.

China's lithium battery exports reached $48.3B during the first eight months of 2025. Explore 5 key regulatory changes from 2025 and 7 critical trends for 2026, including mandatory SOC limits, export licensing, and compliance requirements for DG shipments from China.