Regional Container Lines (RCL) posted a net profit of THB 3.26 billion for the third quarter ended 30 September 2026, up 64.7% from THB 1.98 billion in the previous quarter, as higher freight rates offset a decline in container volumes. Freight income rose THB 1.05 billion, or 10.4%, quarter-on-quarter, while freight and operating costs fell 2.4%. Total container liftings dropped 4.1% during the period. The Thailand-based carrier said earnings were boosted by elevated freight rates linked to port congestion and the ongoing Middle East conflict, with average freight rates climbing from US$552 per TEU in the second quarter to US$624 per TEU in the third. For the first nine months of 2026, RCL reported net profit of THB 6.91 billion, an 8.6% rise from THB 6.36 billion a year earlier, supported by a 7.5% increase in freight income as average rates grew from US$420 to US$520 per TEU. Container liftings fell 232,000 TEU, or 11.7%, over the same period, which RCL attributed to port congestion in Asia and Europe, longer voyage times, Middle East-related disruptions and container shortages. The company rerouted vessels away from conflict zones and reallocated capacity to stronger-demand trade lanes. RCL also confirmed orders for 12 new containerships totalling 44,600 TEU of nominal capacity, comprising four 1,900 TEU vessels, six 3,100 TEU vessels and two 9,200 TEU ships, with deliveries starting in 2028. Shipyards and order values were not disclosed. Separately, RCL named three 4,488 TEU vessels—Anitta Bhum, Benyapar Bhum and Chantisa Bhum—in Guangzhou in September, and declared an interim dividend of THB 0.50 per share, payable 4 December 2026.