Not all bad news for European container trades

First-half volumes up on last year, but less traffic on all routes in June than in May

Container volumes from Asia to Europe declined in June, compared with May, but on a brighter note they are ahead of the levels recorded during the same month last year.

According to the latest figures from Container Trade Statistics (CTS), June imports into Europe from Asia were 4.2% down on May, at 1.16 million teu. However, this was 1.71% more than was imported during June 2010.

Over the second quarter of 2011, imports into Europe from Asia reached 3.5 million teu, a year-on-year increase of 4.1%. And exports to Asia were up, year on year, at 1.48 million teu.

All other trade lanes in and out of Europe saw less traffic in June than in May. The most significant decrease being imports from South and Central America, which fell 11.6%, the third monthly decline in succession.

Also, imports from North America and exports to North America declined in June: by 10.9 % and 3.4 % respectively on May figures.

However, again compared with June 2010, the major trades registered growth – the exception being European imports from North America which declined by 1.4%.

Overall, Q2, and half-year figures saw all major trades record year on year growth.

Meanwhile, CTS’s rate data confirms reports that prices of container services from Asia to Europe have been on a downward spiral this year.

CTS’s rate index, which uses the average rate for 2008 as a base figure of 100, saw westbound rates from Asia to Europe decline for the 11th consecutive month to reach 77, its lowest since September 2009.

All other major trades declined in June, except for European exports to North America which increased by one point to 89, while imports remained stable at 110. (IFW)

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