The Busiest Container Ports in the World

The global economy is heavily reliant on maritime trade, with container ports acting as vital hubs for international commerce. The efficiency and capacity of these ports are essential to maintaining the flow of goods across the world. Among them, a select few stand out for their impressive container throughput volumes. 

Where are the world’s largest ports?

Nine of the top 10 container ports in the world are located in Asia, with seven in China. This reflects the region’s dominant role in global manufacturing and trade, driven by its extensive production networks and significant investments in port infrastructure and technology. 

Top 10 Container Ports by Annual TEU Throughput

According to the Lloyd's List 2023 One Hundred Ports Analysis, the following are the top 10 container ports by annual TEU throughput.

Collectively, these 10 ports handled over a quarter billion (273M) TEUs in 2023. This represents 42% of total container volumes handled by the world's 100 busiest ports –the 11th to 100th busiest ports collectively handled 372M TEUs over the same time period.

1. Shanghai, China 

Shanghai remains the world’s busiest container port, handling an astonishing 47,303,000 TEU in 2023. As a key gateway for China’s extensive manufacturing sector, Shanghai's port continues to expand its capacity to accommodate increasing volumes.

2. Singapore

Singapore retains its position as the second-busiest container port globally, with an annual throughput of 37,289,600 TEU. Strategically located on the key shipping routes between Asia and Europe, Singapore is a pivotal hub for transshipments.

3. Ningbo-Zhoushan, China 

With an annual throughput of 33,351,000 TEU, Ningbo-Zhoushan ranks third on the list. Its strategic location along China’s eastern coast and robust infrastructure development make it a critical hub for international trade.

4. Shenzhen, China 

Shenzhen, known for its rapid economic growth and proximity to Hong Kong, handled 30,036,200 TEU in 2023. The port serves as a significant gateway for goods flowing in and out of China’s manufacturing heartland.

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5. Qingdao, China 

At fifth place, Qingdao port achieved a throughput of 25,670,000 TEU. Qingdao is a crucial port for China’s Belt and Road Initiative, connecting trade routes across Asia, Europe, and Africa.

6. Guangzhou, China 

The Guangzhou port processed 24,857,600 TEU in 2023, securing its position as the sixth busiest port globally. It serves the Pearl River Delta, one of China's most economically vibrant regions.

7. Busan, South Korea 

South Korea’s Busan port is the seventh busiest globally, with an annual TEU volume of 22,078,195. It is a key transshipment hub for Northeast Asia, connecting regional markets to global supply chains.

8. Tianjin, China 

Tianjin handled 21,021,300 TEU in 2023, ranking eighth. The port serves as the maritime gateway to Beijing and the Bohai Economic Rim, making it a vital component of China's trade network.

9. Hong Kong, China 

Hong Kong’s port, once the busiest in the world, still ranks among the top ten, with a throughput of 16,685,000 TEU. Despite facing competition from nearby ports, it remains an important logistics hub.

10. Rotterdam, Netherlands 

As Europe’s largest port, Rotterdam handled 14,455,000 TEU, making it the tenth busiest port globally. It serves as a critical gateway for goods entering and leaving Europe, particularly for trade with Asia.

Shanghai: The World’s Busiest Container Port

Shanghai has maintained its position as the world's busiest container port since taking the top spot from Singapore in 2011. Handling a staggering 47,303,000 TEU in 2023, the port has continued to grow its capacity and efficiency. Several factors contribute to its dominance.

Firstly, Shanghai's strategic location at the mouth of the Yangtze River provides access to one of China's most populous and economically dynamic regions. This makes it a natural hub for both imports and exports. Secondly, the port's continuous investment in state-of-the-art infrastructure, including automated terminals and deep-water berths, has enhanced its capacity to handle large vessels and a high volume of containers efficiently.

Moreover, Shanghai's port is a critical component of China's Belt and Road Initiative, linking it with ports across Asia, Europe, and Africa. The port's integration with the Yangshan Deep-Water Port, connected by the world’s longest sea bridge, has further solidified its role as a global shipping powerhouse.

The Fastest Growing Ports in the World 

The fastest-growing ports in the world are primarily found in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, driven by rapid economic development, rising trade volumes, and significant infrastructure investments. Ports such as Guangzhou in China and Jebel Ali in the UAE have seen substantial growth due to their strategic locations and expanding trade networks. In Africa, ports like Tanger Med in Morocco are emerging as critical hubs, benefiting from investments in modernization and increasing trade between Europe and Africa. Indian ports have also recorded strong year-on-year growth coming out of the pandemic.

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