New Delhi, Oct. 19 -- Global container freight rates have surged 130 per cent since February 2026 amid renewed tensions in West Asia, raising concerns over shipping costs as India's container-based export-import trade continues to grow, according to a report by Jefferies.

The report said global freight rates rebounded after steadily declining from early 2025, when elevated rates in 2024 began easing amid an improving demand-supply balance. The renewed increase in shipping costs has brought freight rates back into focus for businesses involved in international trade.

Jefferies said the potential impact of shipping lines returning to the Suez Canal, despite continuing tensions in West Asia, remains an important factor to monitor.

The rep...