2025: A Year of Continuous Records
For the first eight months of 2025, global container volumes have reached over 126.75 million TEUs, representing a 4.4% increase compared to the same period in 2024. August continued this trend of strong performance, recording 16.61 million TEUs, which now stands as the highest monthly volume ever in the CTS database, surpassing May 2025’s previous record of 16.59 million TEUs. While the month-on-month increase was modest at 0.2%, it highlights the consistently high level of global volumes in 2025. In fact, August marks the fourth consecutive month in which global volumes have exceeded 16 million TEUs.
Impressive Regional Imports
Year-to-date regional import data shows strong growth across all regions except North America. Leading the way are Sub-Saharan Africa, Indian Sub-Continent & Middle East, and South & Central America, which are up 16.4%, 8.7%, and 7.5% respectively. Europe follows closely with a 7.3% increase, supported by imports from the Far East and the Indian Sub-Continent & Middle East, both up over 8.5% YTD. North American imports experienced a 0.5% decline year-to-date, in contrast, in July the region had been up 1% YTD, indicating that August’s figures moderated the recent recovery.
Similar Story Seen In Regional Exports
Regional exports reflect a similar pattern. All regions posted increases except North America, which saw a 2.7% decline. While six of the seven regions recorded year-to-date growth, the gains were generally less pronounced than those seen in imports. The Far East and Indian Sub-Continent & Middle East achieved the largest year-to-date export increases, up 6.4% and 5.9% respectively. Europe’s exports, however, remained nearly flat, rising just 0.1% YTD, following a 6% month-on-month decline in August.
Global Price Index Softens as Volumes Strengthen
The Global Price Index fell by 3 points in August, standing at 81 points, continuing a steady decline since June 2025. By comparison, the index was at 115 points at the same time last year, reflecting ongoing market adjustments despite strong volume performance.
A Stronger 2025 than Predicted
As we conclude the eighth month of 2025, it is clear that the year is outperforming early expectations. Continuous record-breaking months and resilient trade patterns highlight the strength and adaptability of the global container market. 2025 is shaping up to be a far stronger year than initially predicted, underlining the market’s capacity to navigate challenges while sustaining growth.
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We are pleased to confirm that Sinolines is now included in our container volume figures, effective from the August 2025 data release.
