Sector outlook

According to the market research institute Drewry, global container throughput will continue to grow. In view of the geopolitical tensions, trade policy uncertainties and weaker economic growth, however, momentum is likely to slow significantly. Following exceptionally high growth rates of 7.4 % in 2024 and 6.5 % in 2025, Drewry expects global container throughput to rise by 3.0 % in 2026. This outlook has actually been raised by 1.2 percentage points compared to the March forecast, as demand in the first half of the year was stronger than expected. Nevertheless, the development of container traffic continues to be shaped by geopolitical risks and trade policy uncertainties. Moreover, the market trend will increasingly depend on the extent to which shipping lines succeed in adjusting their capacities to changing demand and transport patterns.

Asia remains the main growth driver of global container traffic. Drewry forecasts a 4.8 % rise in container throughput for 2026. The region remains by far the most important shipping region, accounting for more than half of global port throughput. While South-East Asia in particular is benefiting from the relocation of production capacity, China continues to assert its role as a key hub for intermediate products, semiconductors, high-tech components and export goods.

Drewry continues to forecast positive growth in container throughput for Europe in 2026. Compared to the preceding years, however, the anticipated growth rate of 4.1 % is far more modest. The main drags on growth are high energy costs, weak capital spending and subdued consumer demand. In addition, the consequences of re-rerouting in the Red Sea and the resulting longer transport routes will affect business at European ports. Europe remains heavily dependent on imports from Asia, which now account for nearly 70 % of all container imports to the region.