Container freight rates continue to slide during what should be the busiest time of the year.

That is fuelling worries that the peak season that traditionally starts in July may prove a damp squib.

The concern comes amid confusion over whether the falling rates are due to an easing of demand, an unwinding of supply, or both.

It is in stark contrast to last year’s peak season, when transpacific spot rates soared 80% in July, helping power the container market to all-time highs.