Container shipping stocks are among the top gainers in today's session.

At the time of writing, LC LOGISTICS (02490) is up 6.22% to HK$3.93. COSCO SHIP HOLD (01919) has risen 5.26% to HK$14.82. OOIL (00316) is 4.29% higher at HK$140.9, while SITC (01308) has gained 1.97% to trade at HK$35.18.

The upward movement is supported by continued efforts from shipping lines to raise freight rates. Reports indicate that Maersk's rates for a 40-foot container (FEU) for week 23 are around US$3,600-4,000. MSC is quoting approximately US$3,940 per FEU, and ONE's online rate is about US$3,541 per FEU.

These rates for the first week of June are significantly higher than the level of around US$2,850 per FEU seen in late May, highlighting a strong intent among carriers to push through increases. Actual spot market rates for physical cargo are reportedly in the range of US$3,500-3,600 per FEU, also showing a clear sequential increase from late May. The carriers' aggressive pricing is primarily supported by positive sentiment in the external environment.

An institutional research report notes that the container shipping market has outperformed expectations, with freight rates surging across all trade lanes. China's robust export performance from January to April, coupled with a global restocking wave, has boosted cargo volumes. Meanwhile, the projected supply growth rate for 2026 is only 4%-5%, which is at the low end of the five-year range. Factors like reduced sailing speeds and port congestion are significantly constraining effective vessel capacity.

The report further suggests that port congestion is likely to become a persistent feature over the next three to five years, which will exacerbate volatility in freight rates. Leading shipping companies are expected to see improved profitability under these conditions.