Despite challenging trade conditions, global container volumes experienced steady growth in the first half of 2025. According to provisional data from Container Trades Statistics (CTS), worldwide full TEU volumes increased by 4.5% from January to June, reaching 93.5 million TEU. Intercontinental cargo volumes grew by 4.7%, while intra-regional volumes rose by 3.3%.
Regional Performance: Exports and Imports
Export performance varied significantly across different regions:
- Exports: The Far East was the primary driver of growth, with an impressive 8.2% increase in exports. Other regions with positive export growth included Australasia, the Middle East/Indian Subcontinent, and Latin America. In contrast, North America saw a notable decline in its export traffic (excluding intra-regional flows).
- Imports: Most regions recorded strong import growth. However, the Far East was a major exception, with its import volumes decreasing by 6.3%. North America experienced a 4.0% increase in imports, a trend partly influenced by the “frontloading” of shipments in anticipation of new U.S. tariffs.
Context and Outlook
This growth highlights the resilience of the global container trade despite ongoing uncertainties. The data points to a strong start to the year for most major trade lanes, with regional disparities in performance reflecting different economic and policy environments. The continued shift in trade dynamics, such as the growth in imports to North America and exports from the Far East, will be a key factor to watch in the latter half of the year.
Did you subscribe to our Daily newsletter?
It’s Free! Click here to Subscribe!
Source: Container News