#Ports&Shipping –The latest IMDO Weekly Shipping Market Review includes the following stories as detailed below.

Container Market: Brussels launches anti-trust probe-The European Commission launched a formal investigation into concerns that the pricing practices of a number of major box lines showed possible collusion. The Financial Times reported that the basis for the investigation has been the public announcement by container shipping companies of future price increase intentions –a practice which became the norm following the banning of liner conferences by the EU in 2008.

Intermodal: EU trailer market to grow 10% in 2014 - A new report forecasting the demand for heavy goods trailers in Western Europe up to 2017 has predicted a 'solid recovery' for trailer demand in 2014 on the basis of improving economic data, according to Transport Weekly. The report, produced by consultancy firm Clear International, suggests that the trailer market in Western Europe will grow by 10%, with several countries experiencing growth of over 15%.

Short Sea Market-The European short sea bulk market remained firmer last week, in keeping with the trend of previous weeks. H.C. Shipping & Chartering reported spot tonnage being in short supply as a result of seasonal weather delays and a pick-up in demand which led to rates showing signs of improvement. Growing demand was likely been due to the approaching month-end and preparations being made to stock inventories for the coming holiday season.

For more on each of the above and other stories click the downloadable PDF IMDO Weekly Markets Review (Week 47). In addition to Afloat.ie dedicated Ports & Shipping News section.