Shanghai handled more than 55 million TEU in 2025, retaining its position as the world's busiest container port for the 16th consecutive year, reports Fort Lauderdale's Maritime Executive.

Shanghai International Port Group said throughput reached 55.06 million TEU, a 6.9 percent increase. Overall cargo volume rose just over three percent to 600 million tons compared with 580 million tons in 2024.

Yangshan Deep Water Port accounted for more than half of the total, with Phase III Terminal surpassing 10 million TEU for the first time. Few ports globally handle such volumes in a single year.

Transshipment volumes rose 10.6 percent to 7.9 million TEU, underscoring Shanghai's growing role as a global hub. SIPG said water-to-water operations and efficiency gains supported the increase.

The port faced challenges from volatile trade conditions, geopolitical conflicts, and extreme weather. SIPG said collaboration with shipping companies and improved resource use helped maintain resilience.

Technology played a key role, with automated terminals, digital twins, and AI-based stowage models boosting productivity and reducing re-stowage rates. Sea-rail volumes exceeded 1 million TEU for the first time, up 16 percent year on year.

Looking ahead, SIPG plans to expand infrastructure, optimize port layout, and strengthen international transshipment. The company said it aims to consolidate Shanghai's position as a core hub in Northeast Asia.

Other Chinese ports also reported growth. Ningbo-Zhoushan handled 43 million TEU in 2025, while Singapore recorded 44.66 million TEU, up 8.6 percent. Singapore also reported 3.22 billion gross tonnage of vessel arrivals, a 3.5 percent increase.