The Bradfield Bulletin - 9th January 2026

I’m sure this week has been a tough one for those coming back from holidays. The air still feels festive, and with school holidays continuing, the roads are noticeably quieter. New Year’s resolutions are everywhere, and that sense of a fresh start gives many of us hope that this year will be a good one.

For some, however, the start of a new year can be difficult, especially if things already feel challenging. On those days, it’s important to remember that tomorrow is a new day.

That sense of optimism is being tested early, with global container markets reminding us how quickly conditions can change. Rates rose sharply this week, with the Drewry index showing a double digit increase (16%), led by Transpacific and Asia–Europe trades. Much of the movement appears linked to early pricing ahead of the Chinese New Year, as carriers push through increases before factory shutdowns.

Closer to home, Australian trade lanes are reporting steady volumes, with the usual last minute booking rush expected in the coming weeks.

Despite the headlines, demand remains mixed. Forwarders report uneven volumes, raising questions about how long the current momentum can hold. As often happens, volatility, rather than a clear upward trend, continues to define the market.

Beyond pricing, attention is returning to global shipping routes and the impact of Red Sea disruptions. There is hope that 2026 may finally see more traffic return to the Suez Canal, but recovery remains slow. Even 100 days after the last reported Houthi attack, Suez traffic is still around 60% below pre crisis levels, reflecting ongoing caution among operators.

And while much of Australia swelters, severe winter weather is causing a very different challenge across Northern and Western Europe. Snow, ice, and freezing conditions are disrupting port operations and inland transport, leading to delays and congestion at several major hubs.

So, what else is happening out there?

💠Ningbo-Zhoushan becomes first port to handle 1.4bn tonnes
💠Trump exits anti-piracy and trade bodies in UN pullback
💠US Supreme Court to rule on tariff legality
💠FMC swears in new commissioner Laura DiBella
💠Container lines maintain Venezuela services
💠Imabari completes takeover of Japan’s No.2 shipbuilder

💠2026 to be IMO’s “year of implementation”
💠MEDLOG acquires Seaway Intermodal
💠Rail derailment halts east–west freight in Australia
💠ONE & MTI launch Vietnam JV for AI shipping solutions

Today’s picture features the CMA CGM Loire, isn't she a beauty?

This vessel measures 300m in length and has a beamof 48m (width).

Built in 2015, she belongs to a series of 28 vessels named after famous rivers worldwide and can carry around 9365 TEUs. 
Here's to a new year, new challenges and maybe even some new vessels coming our way...
Have a great weekend everyone!