- Global container volumes reached 16.57 million TEUs in July, up 12% from 2023.
- Imports strengthened across all regions, with Sub-Saharan Africa leading at 16% year-to-date growth.
- Far East exports hit a record 10.4 million TEUs, sustaining three months above 10 million TEUs.
- 2025 is on track to surpass 2024, driven by emerging markets absorbing higher cargo volumes.
Global container trade maintained strong momentum in July 2025, with volumes reaching 16.57 million TEUs. This marked a 3.9% increase from June and a 4.5% gain compared with July 2024, placing current volumes 12% ahead of 2023 levels. For the first time on record, monthly totals have remained above 16 million TEUs for three consecutive months, underscoring the resilience of global trade, as shared by Container News.
Container volumes continued to advance across most regions in July. North America recorded a 1.4% month-on-month increase, extending its recovery and marking the first annual growth since March. Europe also showed strength, with imports rising 2.87% from June and nearly 8% year-to-date, driven largely by flows from the Far East and the Indian Sub-Continent & Middle East. Emerging regions led the way, with Sub-Saharan Africa posting a 16% year-to-date gain, supported by imports from the Far East, while the Indian Sub-Continent & Middle East and South & Central America each climbed more than 8%.
On the export side, the Far East reached a record 10.4 million TEUs in July, with volumes topping 10 million TEUs for the third straight month. Growth was concentrated in shipments to emerging markets such as Sub-Saharan Africa, South & Central America, and the Indian Sub-Continent & Middle East. While North America registered a 2% year-to-date decline in exports, overall global trade continues to outperform 2024 levels. With emerging markets absorbing larger cargo volumes, 2025 is shaping up to set a new benchmark for container trade.
Did you subscribe to our Daily newsletter?
It’s Free! Click here to Subscribe!
Source: Container News
