The global container shipping market has demonstrated remarkable strength in 2025, defying earlier predictions of slowdown. With container volumes surpassing all previous records, the industry continues to show resilience and adaptability. Data for the first eight months of 2025 indicates robust trade growth and consistent demand, even as price indices soften.
Record-Breaking Global Volumes
In the first eight months of 2025, global container volumes reached 126.75 million TEUs, marking a 4.4% increase compared to 2024. August 2025 stood out as a milestone month, achieving 16.61 million TEUs, the highest monthly total ever recorded in the CTS database.
Despite a modest 0.2% month-on-month increase, this achievement underscores the sustained high activity levels in global trade. Notably, August became the fourth consecutive month where volumes exceeded 16 million TEUs, reflecting steady demand across major trade routes.
Regional Trade Trends: Imports and Exports
Regional import trends reveal impressive growth across most regions except North America. Sub-Saharan Africa (+16.4%), Indian Sub-Continent & Middle East (+8.7%), and South & Central America (+7.5%) led the way, highlighting emerging market expansion. Europe also recorded a 7.3% rise supported by strong imports from Asia and the Middle East. Conversely, North America saw a 0.5% decline, reversing its earlier gains.
Exports followed a similar trend, with most regions posting year-to-date increases except North America, which recorded a 2.7% drop. The Far East (+6.4%) and Indian Sub-Continent & Middle East (+5.9%) showed the strongest growth, while Europe’s exports remained nearly flat with just 0.1% YTD growth, following a monthly dip in August.
Price Index Decline Amid High Volumes
Interestingly, despite the strong trade volumes, the Global Price Index continued its downward trend, falling by 3 points to 81 in August 2025. This marks a steady decline since June and a sharp contrast to 115 points recorded in the same period last year. The drop suggests market stabilization and price corrections following earlier freight rate surges, even as cargo movement remains robust.
The performance of the global container market in 2025 reflects both resilience and adaptation in a shifting economic landscape. With record-breaking volumes, strong regional trade growth, and balanced market corrections, the industry has exceeded expectations. As 2025 progresses, the container market continues to prove its ability to maintain momentum and navigate volatility, signaling a healthier and stronger global trade environment than previously anticipated.
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Source: CTS
