Reefer container freight rates have risen sharply this year but remain far outgunned by the inexorable rise in dry box pricing, according to Drewry’s newly launched Reefer Shipping Forecaster report.
The head of the Food and Drink Federation (FDF) is backing calls for seafarers to be recognised as key workers and has underlined concerns about distribution to food and drink supplies if the maritime industry remains under lockdown.
The coronavirus pandemic dealt a severe blow to global merchandise trade. Data from weekly port calls by container ships show early but uneven signs of recovery.