Strong Chinese and Korean flows offset tariff uncertainty

The car carrier market is entering a new phase. After a couple of years of super-cycle dynamics, charter rates are easing from record highs yet remain materially above long-term averages, a pattern we have recorded for the last year. Charter rates have now stabilized, supported by sustained export momentum out of Asia.

China and Korea drive export growth
Exports from Asia remain the backbone of trade growth. South Korea’s vehicle exports rose 8.6 percent year-on-year in August 2025 to USD 5.5 billion, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, driven by strong demand for electrified models in Europe despite the 25 percent US import tariff. China, also a dominant force, had car exports exceeding 3.7 million units in the first seven months of 2025, up more than 20 percent year-on-year.

Tariffs create new uncertainty
Looking ahead, risks are still present. Mexico has proposed raising tariffs on Chinese vehicles and auto parts to 50 percent, a move that could disrupt nearly 600,000 units of annual trade flows. At the same time, a relatively large PCTC orderbook due for delivery in 2026–2027 will increase fleet capacity after years of tight supply, but emphasizing the old age of the fleet, one could argue that a fleet renewal is necessary.

Balancing strength and risk
Overall, the PCTC market is transitioning from extraordinary conditions to a more balanced, though still elevated, environment. Asian export strength and the global EV shift continue to provide strong long-term demand, but fleet growth and policy risks point to a more balanced market ahead.