DNV and the renowned economic consulting firm Menon Economics have jointly released the first independent benchmark report and ranking of “The World’s Leading Container Ports” (LCP). The report shows that Singapore and Shanghai rank among the top two globally, while China’s Ningbo-Zhoushan, Qingdao, and Shenzhen ports also make the top ten, ranking third, sixth, and seventh respectively, demonstrating China’s core competitiveness in the global container port sector.
As the core carrier of global trade, maritime transport carries nearly 90% of global trade volume by cargo volume, with container ports handling over 80% of non-bulk goods. Currently, driven by multiple factors including expanding trade flows, accelerating technological iteration, and increasing pressure to meet climate targets, global ports are undergoing a profound transformation. Against this backdrop, DNV and Menon Economics have launched the industry’s first global benchmark assessment research report and ranking for container ports. The LCP report benchmarks 160 ports based on 35 indicators across five pillars. These five pillars include: Drivers, Connectivity & Customer Value, Productivity, Sustainability, and Overall Impact. These indicators are based on objective data, such as throughput, berth productivity, emissions per TEU, and alternative fuel availability, supplemented by expert assessments from leading shipping stakeholders. The LCP ranking complements other benchmark reports jointly released by DNV and Menon Economics, such as the “Leading Maritime Capitals of the World,” by providing a focused assessment of container port performance.
Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, CEO of DNV Maritime, said: “Container ports, handling over 930 million TEUs annually, are the core support for global trade flows and critical infrastructure for securing business operations and community supplies. As global trade patterns shift and the industry faces new pressures, ports that can adapt, develop clear strategies, and invest in future-oriented operations will continue to lead and set the pace for the industry’s development. This report aims to provide trusted analysis and insights to help ports and stakeholders navigate these changes with confidence.”
The report recommends that ports invest in scalable infrastructure, accelerate digitalization, demonstrate leadership in sustainability, while maintaining strong customer relationships and building resilience to disruptions. Clear strategic planning and transparent communication are crucial for ports aiming to ensure long-term competitiveness.
Port authorities play a key role in shaping the future of container ports. Forward-looking strategies that prioritize productivity, service quality, digitalization, and sustainability are essential for long-term competitiveness. Although some ports did not rank at the top due to overall performance indicators, the report clearly reflects that many port authorities across regions demonstrate forward-thinking and are actively developing policies and making investments to bridge these gaps.
Dr. Erik Jakobsen, Partner and Chairman of the Board at Menon Economics, added: “The best-performing container ports are both expanding capacity and rethinking how technology shapes daily operations. We see automation and digital tools being integrated into every process, from vessel scheduling to cargo handling. Investments in clean energy and integrated transport connections are also making a difference, helping ports operate more efficiently and adapt to new demands.”
The world’s top five container ports:
1. Singapore
Singapore achieved the highest overall score, leading in all five pillars of the ranking. Its world-class infrastructure, transparent governance, and strong connectivity make it a global benchmark. The port serves all major shipping lines and offers the most liner services. Advanced automation technology and early investments in alternative fuel bunkering, green shipping corridors, and emission reduction measures solidify its leadership in sustainability.
2. Shanghai
Shanghai is the world’s busiest container port, handling 51.5 million TEUs in 2024. It has the highest Liner Shipping Connectivity Index and offers a wide range of liner services. The port combines smart technology with efficient handling of ultra-large container vessels. It ranks second in sustainability, supported by robust shore power infrastructure, rapidly developing alternative fuel bunkering capabilities, and the pragmatic advancement of green shipping corridor initiatives spanning multiple trunk lines.
3. Ningbo-Zhoushan
Ningbo-Zhoushan port is the world’s fastest-growing container port, handling 39.3 million TEUs in 2024, a 26% increase in throughput over the past three years. Its growth reflects its strategic role in China’s “Belt and Road” Initiative and its expanding global connectivity.
4. Busan
Busan is a logistics hub in Northeast Asia and a key transshipment point connecting the markets of China, Japan, and South Korea. Its strategic location and operational efficiency make it a critical node in regional and global supply chains.
5. Rotterdam
Rotterdam is Europe’s largest container port and a leader in sustainability and innovation. It invests heavily in alternative fuel infrastructure, shore power supply, and digital twin technology, consistently ranking as Europe’s top maritime gateway.
It is noteworthy that some of the cities where these ports are located also rank highly in the “Leading Maritime Capitals of the World” report, highlighting their dual role as gateways for global trade and comprehensive maritime hubs.
