According to Container Trades Statistics Ltd., global container volumes strengthened again in October, rising 2.8% from September and returning above the 16 million TEU threshold. Liftings reached 16.3 million TEUs, marking the sixth time this year that totals have surpassed that level and underscoring the market’s continued resilience through 2025.
Volumes Gain Momentum Through October
October’s figures came in 2% higher year-on-year, while year-to-date volumes are tracking 4% above the same period in 2024. This consistency reflects a sharp contrast with 2024, when global liftings exceeded 16 million TEUs only twice.
At the same time, the Global Price Index fell another 3 points to 73 — its lowest reading of 2025 — placing it 21 points below its level at the start of the year.
Sub-Saharan Africa Shows Strongest Import Growth
Most regions posted positive year-to-date import growth, with North America being the exception, recording a modest 2% decline. Despite the dip, increased flows from Europe, the Indian Sub-Continent & Middle East, and Sub-Saharan Africa helped soften the impact.
The Far East still supplies around 68% of all North American imports.
Sub-Saharan Africa continues to deliver standout performance in 2025. Imports into the region have climbed 16% year-to-date, supported by strong volumes from the Far East, the Indian Sub-Continent & Middle East and North America. Price indices into the region have remained stable despite the higher intake.
Export Growth Diverges Across Regions
Export performance shows a different dynamic. North America and Europe have recorded zero year-to-date export growth, and Europe’s trade imbalance continues to widen. European imports are up by nearly 2 million TEUs in 2025, while exports have increased by just 15,000 TEUs.
Exports from Europe to the Far East dropped by about 8% year-to-date. Gains in other trade lanes were minor, indicating subdued external demand.
The Far East remains the largest global export engine, adding roughly 5.2 million TEUs above 2024 levels. Much of this strength comes from rising trade between the Far East and the Indian Sub-Continent & Middle East. In percentage terms, the latter region recorded 8% export growth year-to-date, with increases spread across multiple destinations.
Entering the Final Quarter of 2025
Although volumes remain strong, several key indices point to softening conditions. The Global Price Index continues to ease, and trade patterns are shifting as some regions experience lower demand.
A few central questions frame the months ahead:
• What is driving Europe’s sustained import momentum?
• How will Europe’s widening imbalance influence flows?
• Can the Far East maintain its export strength into 2026?
• And which smaller emerging markets will continue contributing to global growth?
Container Trades Statistics Ltd. highlights that 2025 has already reshaped expectations for containerized trade, and the final months will clarify how this historic year concludes.
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Source: Container Trades Statistics Ltd
