Thailand's Regional Container Lines has posted a third-quarter net profit of THB2.3 billion (US$62.7 million), up 14.8 per cent from the previous quarter, driven by higher freight income and cost control, reports Melbourne's Baird Maritime News.

The company said the profit growth came despite a 1.4 per cent drop in total liftings, as average freight rates climbed to US$440 per TEU in the third quarter, compared with $406 in the second quarter.

For the first nine months of 2025, RCL recorded a net profit of THB6.4 billion, an 8.7 per cent increase year on year, supported by an 11.3 per cent rise in total liftings.

RCL said the global shipping sector remains under pressure from vessel oversupply and geopolitical risks. In response, the company is investing in "modern, environmentally friendly" ships and has tested a biofuel blend on its vessel Piya Bhum.

The board has approved a subsidiary to acquire two 14,000-TEU newbuilds from HD Hyundai Heavy Industries in South Korea. The vessels will feature advanced fuel-efficient technology.

RCL also declared an interim dividend of THB0.50 per share, to be paid on December 4.