Container handling capacity is projected to post its strongest annual increase this year

By Admin

25 Sep, 2025

Global container handling is on track to post its strongest annual increase since the global financial crisis, according to the latest Global Container Terminal Operators Annual Review and Forecast report by UK-based maritime consultant Drewry. The report highlights that container handling capacity is projected to rise by 4.8% or 64 million TEU in 2025, marking the largest absolute annual growth in nearly two decades.

Post-pandemic momentum drives expansion

Drewry attributes this surge to buoyant market conditions in the immediate post-pandemic period. Global trade demand bounced back sharply after COVID-19 disruptions, while widespread port and terminal congestion highlighted the urgent need for infrastructure upgrades. This prompted a wave of terminal expansions and modernization projects, ensuring operators are now better prepared to handle surging container volumes.

PSA International retains top spot

Singapore-based PSA International continues to dominate as the world’s largest global terminal operator. In Drewry’s equity-adjusted rankings, PSA reported throughput of 67.2 million TEU, representing a 7.3% increase from last year. This performance secures PSA’s position at the top, ahead of China’s major operators.

Chinese operators close behind

On Drewry’s global podium, China Merchants and COSCO took the second and third spots, respectively. These state-backed giants continue to leverage China’s strong manufacturing and export base, expanding their influence across Asia, Europe, and Africa.

Global carriers strengthen terminal arms

The report also notes that the terminal operating divisions of cash-rich global carriers including MSC, CMA CGM, and Hapag-Lloyd have made significant gains. These companies are increasingly integrating terminal operations into their logistics ecosystems, allowing them to capture more value across the supply chain while reducing reliance on third-party operators.

Largest annual rise since the financial crisis

According to Drewry’s senior analyst Neil Hadland, the forecasted increase of 64 million TEU will be the biggest annual capacity rise in absolute terms since the 2008–09 global financial crisis. This reflects both recovery-driven demand and the industry’s proactive response to past bottlenecks.

Outlook for 2025 and beyond

As trade continues to expand and supply chain resilience remains a top priority, terminal capacity upgrades will play a critical role in supporting global commerce. With major operators investing in automation, digitalization, and green technologies, the container handling industry is well-positioned to meet future challenges while accommodating rising trade volumes.