Car carrier operators such as Höegh Autoliners and Wallenius Wilhelmsen reported record Asian vehicle exports in Q2 2025, despite the US cutting tariffs on imports to 15%. Falling charter rates, down from $115,000 to $45,000 per day for a 6,500-CEU ship, allowed carriers to lease extra tonnage to meet soaring demand. Höegh’s CEO stated that tariff clarity has stabilised trade flows, while revisions to proposed US port fees have further reduced costs. Both operators warned of long-term risks from rising tariffs but said strong contracts cover most of their 2026 capacity. Wallenius posted a 28% net profit increase to $403 million, while Höegh earned $123 million on revenues of $367 million.
