Global container volumes outperformed expectations in 2025, with overall growth estimated at +5.2%, driven largely by strong demand and continued disruptions across liner networks. One of the most notable shifts has been the increasing importance of Southeast Asia as a transshipment hub.
Malaysia’s Port of Tanjung Pelepas (PTP) led global growth among major gateways, with volumes rising +14.5% to over 14M TEU, moving up to 13th globally. Throughput is now approximately 55% above pre-pandemic levels, reflecting a continued shift in cargo flows toward the region. Capacity is expected to expand further to ~16M TEU by 2027.
Singapore also posted strong performance, handling 44.7M TEU (+8.6%), outpacing other major hubs. Regional redistribution points such as Colombo (+6.5%) and Nhava Sheva (+12.6%) continue to gain traction, supported by evolving trade dynamics—including the recent India–EU Free Trade Agreement, linking markets representing ~25% of global GDP.
In the Mediterranean, key hubs such as Tanger Med (+8.4%) and Valencia also recorded solid growth, while Hong Kong continues to see declining volumes, down -5.4% in 2025.
At Axxess, we continue to monitor these shifting trade patterns closely to help our clients optimize routing strategies and maintain supply chain resilience.
Source: Alphaliner, ShippingWatch