Drewry’s Global Container Port Throughput Index rose 3.0% month-over-month (MoM) in January, reaching 117.8 points—an 8.3% year-over-year (YoY) increase. The rolling 12-month growth rate for global port handling slightly improved to 6.2%. However, according to Drewry’s Nowcast model, the Global Port Throughput Index is expected to dip by 2.1% MoM in February 2025.
The Greater China Container Port Throughput Index surged 9.4% MoM to 127.0 points in January, reflecting a 7.6% YoY increase. Major Chinese ports began 2025 on a strong note, with Shanghai— the world’s largest container port—experiencing a remarkable 21.3% growth, reaching a record 5.0 million TEUs in January, 11.1% higher than the same period last year. Ningbo also reported record volumes, rising by 22.1% MoM.
In North America, the Container Port Throughput Index increased by 1.2% MoM to 112.1 points, marking a robust 10.0% YoY growth, particularly driven by the strong performance at US West Coast (USWC) ports. Similarly, Europe’s Container Port Throughput Index rose 2.5% in January to 101.9 points, reflecting a 9.0% YoY increase.
In the Middle East and South Asia, the Container Port Throughput Index grew by 1.0% MoM, with volumes rising 14.0% YoY. This growth was partly due to a low base, as January 2024 had been heavily impacted by the Red Sea diversions. Noteworthy volume increases were observed at key ports: Qatar’s Hamad Port saw a 20% YoY boost, while India’s Mundra (+25.1%), JNPT (+23.2%), Chennai (+23.6%), and Pakistan’s Karachi (+23.1%) ports also reported impressive growth.
Meanwhile, Hansa News Global reported a record-breaking throughput of 3.396 million TEUs at the Port of Melbourne in the state of Victoria, marking a 9% increase over 2023, when the port handled around 3.12 million TEUs. Saul Cannon, CEO of the Port of Melbourne, commented, “The Port of Melbourne is a critical trade gateway for Southeast Australia and beyond. The significant growth in container trade is vital for economic activity in Victoria and highlights the state’s diverse business landscape.”
Australian Minister for Ports and Freight, Melissa Horne, added, “The record-breaking trade figures have provided a boost to the economy, ensuring that Victoria’s residents have a secure supply of essential goods through a strong trade gateway. This is why we continue to support our ports and the cargo industry.”
The Port of Melbourne attributed its impressive container throughput in 2024 to the increase in import trade, particularly consumer goods such as furniture. Additionally, export trade benefited from favorable conditions for a wide range of agricultural products. Cannon further stated, “Trade through the Port of Melbourne is progressing positively, with overall trade volumes—including container trade—expected to continue growing.”
