Global port throughput up 6.5% to 994 mteu in 2025
GTOs target 186 mteu capacity additions through 2030 as concessions mature.
Global port throughput volumes rose 6.5% year on year to 994 million twenty-foot equivalent units (mteu) in 2025, demonstrating resilience despite challenging geopolitical conditions, according to Drewry.
The Global Container Terminal Operators Annual Review & Forecast 2026/27 report found that global terminal operators (GTOs) outperformed the broader market, with equity-adjusted throughput increasing 8.9% on average. This lifted their share of global port volumes to 49.9% in 2025 from 48.8% a year earlier.
Capital investment across GTOs increased 23% in 2025 as operators expanded portfolios, upgraded infrastructure, and invested in automation and digital capabilities. GTOs are projected to add a combined 186 mteu of capacity between 2025 and 2030, although Drewry noted the figures include some double-counting due to joint ownership structures.
PSA International retained the top position in Drewry’s equity-adjusted throughput rankings, handling 69.9 mteu, up 5.3% from the previous year.
Drewry said container terminal concessions are entering a new maturity cycle as long-term agreements awarded during the port privatisation waves of the late 1990s and early 2000s approach the end of their initial terms.
“Whilst monetisation of terminal assets is not a new strategy, CMA CGM’s deal with Stonepeak demonstrates further that partnership can generate win-win outcomes for investors and operators,” said Eleanor Hadland, senior analyst for ports and terminals at Drewry.
Greenfield projects account for 23% of the projected net increase in GTO capacity from 2025 to 2030.
“Four operators—MSC Group, CMA CGM, Adani, and HGT—are projected to add greenfield capacity of 4 mteu or more by 2030, with the first two each adding over 8 mteu,” the report said.
Drewry said hybrid operators linked to shipping lines are better placed to guarantee volumes for greenfield developments because of matched ownership.
The report also highlighted continued merger and acquisition activity in the sector, although regulatory protectionism has delayed some deals, including the proposed acquisition of Hutchison Ports’ international portfolio by TiL and BlackRock.
Terminal operators are also focusing on decarbonisation, with all 19 companies in Drewry’s global operator league tables committing to net zero targets between 2040 and 2060.
The sector’s decarbonisation strategy centres on improving operational efficiency and shifting towards lower-carbon energy sources.
