Seoul: Container shipping costs from South Korea to major economies, including the United States and the European Union (EU), increased from a month earlier in November, the customs agency said Monday. The average shipping cost for a 40-foot container from South Korea to the U.S. east coast and the west coast rose 3.3 percent on-month to 5.37 million won (US$3,635) and 5.7 percent on-month to 5.34 million won, respectively, in November.

According to Yonhap News Agency, shipping rates to the EU saw a significant increase, gaining 11.6 percent to 3.25 million won during the same period. This rise in shipping costs reflects the ongoing challenges in global logistics and the demand for container space among exporters.

In contrast, shipping costs to China slightly decreased by 0.3 percent, settling at 515,000 won. This suggests a varied impact on shipping routes, potentially influenced by regional trade dynamics and differing demand levels.

The figures provided by the Korea Customs Service include freight rates, commissions, and other related charges as reported by local exporters. This data highlights the continuing fluctuations in global shipping costs and their implications for international trade.