Industry observers are warning that a wave of last-minute capacity reductions may be imminent on Asia trades as Chinese Golden Week approaches.

The holiday, which runs from October 1st–7th, typically triggers widespread service cancellations, yet the number of announced blanked sailings so far remains well below historical averages.

Current schedules show far more capacity on the Asia-Europe market than in previous Golden Week periods. With just five weeks until the holiday, analysts expect shipping lines to announce additional blankings soon to prevent oversupply.

The muted transpacific market has added further pressure. Lingering overcapacity and a lacklustre peak season on Asia–Europe have left carriers with limited levers to protect freight rates. Historically, blanked sailings have been the most effective tool to stabilise rates during uncertain demand cycles.

A recent industry report noted that to align with last year’s Golden Week capacity management, an additional 21 sailings would need to be withdrawn. Without such measures, carriers risk rates softening further as the market transitions into the quieter off-season.

Westbound will continue to monitor developments in the lead-up to the holiday and provide timely updates should there be any significant changes.

If you have any questions regarding the above, then Westbound are here to help. So, please do not hesitate to contact us.