Soren Skou painted a positive picture for the container market after Maersk Line reported a larger than forecast first quarter loss today.

The world’s largest container line booked an adjusted loss of $80m in the quarter, below consensus at $63m.

Speaking to investors this morning, the AP Moller-Maersk CEO said: “ The container market is clearly improving.

“Rates are up throughout the quarter and have continued to increase in April.”