Discover the top 10 busiest ports in the world by TEU volume. Explore how these global logistics hubs keep trade moving, drive economies, and shape the maritime industry’s future.
In the vast and interconnected world of shipping, few things matter more than container ports. These monumental gateways are where the global economy takes form—where cargo is transferred, economies grow, and time never stands still. Whether you’re a maritime student, logistics professional, or simply curious about global trade, understanding the busiest ports by TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit) volume opens a window into how our world stays connected.
In this guide, we explore the top 10 busiest container ports by annual TEU throughput, backed by the latest data and insights from UNCTAD, World Bank, Lloyd’s List Intelligence, and IAPH. We’ll also look at what makes these ports thrive, the technologies they use, and the challenges they face.
Why Port TEU Volume Matters in Global Shipping
TEU volume is more than just a number—it’s a direct measure of a port’s capacity, efficiency, and strategic relevance. A high TEU count means:
- Massive container handling infrastructure
- Integrated supply chain networks
- Strong connections to hinterlands and inland transport
According to the UNCTAD Review of Maritime Transport (2024), over 815 million TEUs were handled globally in 2023—a staggering figure that highlights the scale of maritime trade. The majority of this container volume is concentrated in just a handful of mega-ports across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
Understanding these hubs gives insight into shipping trends, supply chain vulnerabilities (as seen during COVID-19), and global economic power shifts.
The Top 10 Busiest Ports in the World by TEU Volume (2024 Data)
Based on the most recent data from Lloyd’s List Intelligence (2024) and IHS Markit (S&P Global), here are the ports that moved the most containers in the last full calendar year.
1. Port of Shanghai, China 🇨🇳
Annual Throughput: 47.8 million TEUs
As the undisputed global leader for over a decade, the Port of Shanghai is the crown jewel of China’s maritime infrastructure. Located at the mouth of the Yangtze River, it combines deep-sea and river port functions.
- Infrastructure: Over 125 berths, Yangshan Deep Water Port.
- Tech: AI-powered traffic systems, 5G-integrated cranes.
- Strategic Role: Central to China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
2. Port of Singapore 🇸🇬
Annual Throughput: 38.4 million TEUs
A historic port and one of Asia’s oldest trading hubs, Singapore remains vital to global shipping. As a transshipment powerhouse, it connects more than 600 ports in 120 countries.
- Efficiency: Average dwell time under 2 days.
- Development: Tuas Mega Port Phase II underway.
- Digitalisation: Port Community System 2.0 (PCS).
3. Ningbo-Zhoushan Port, China 🇨🇳
Annual Throughput: 35.5 million TEUs
This rapidly growing port has benefited from China’s industrial relocation to inland regions and its excellent road/rail links.
- Location: Eastern China, near major Zhejiang industries.
- Expansion: New deep-water terminals for ULCVs.
4. Shenzhen Port, China 🇨🇳
Annual Throughput: 30.0 million TEUs
Close to Hong Kong, the Port of Shenzhen encompasses multiple terminals like Yantian, Chiwan, and Shekou.
- Strengths: Strong electronics export base.
- Digital Ports: AI-aided customs clearance.
5. Port of Guangzhou, China 🇨🇳
Annual Throughput: 25.6 million TEUs
Guangzhou, a historical maritime city, has embraced the future. It services both domestic and international cargo streams.
- Notable: Strong inland connections and trade with ASEAN.
- Green Tech: Hybrid RTG cranes and LNG bunkering services.
6. Port of Qingdao, China 🇨🇳
Annual Throughput: 23.7 million TEUs
One of China’s northern trade gateways, Qingdao boasts cutting-edge port automation and global liner connections.
- Highlight: Fully automated container terminal.
- Partners: COSCO Shipping, MSC.
7. Port of Busan, South Korea 🇰🇷
Annual Throughput: 22.6 million TEUs
Busan acts as Northeast Asia’s main transshipment and logistics center. It bridges Japan, Russia, and North America.
- Tech Innovation: Smart Port Busan initiative.
- Sustainability: Electrified container trucks and solar-powered cranes.
8. Port of Hong Kong 🇭🇰
Annual Throughput: 17.0 million TEUs
Though no longer Asia’s top port, Hong Kong remains significant for its strategic access and historical relevance.
- Challenges: Competition with Shenzhen and regulatory shifts.
- Legacy: Pioneer of modern transshipment hubs.
9. Port of Tianjin, China 🇨🇳
Annual Throughput: 16.8 million TEUs
Northern China’s maritime artery, Tianjin serves the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei mega-region.
- Trade Focus: Bulk commodities, high-value electronics.
- Sustainability: Marine fuel emissions reductions under China’s blue port policies.
10. Port of Rotterdam, Netherlands 🇳🇱
Annual Throughput: 15.1 million TEUs
Europe’s largest and most advanced port, Rotterdam connects EU inland waterways with the global sea trade.
- Tech Leadership: Digital twin of the port.
- Sustainability: Hydrogen-ready terminals.
- Significance: Gateway to over 500 million EU consumers.
What Drives These Ports to Stay on Top?
Strategic Location and Hinterland Access
A port’s proximity to industrial clusters, population centers, and well-developed rail and road networks often defines its TEU volume. For instance, Shanghai and Rotterdam both link directly with national and international inland freight corridors.
Investment in Automation and AI
According to DNV and ICS reports, automation in quay cranes, RTGs (Rubber-Tyred Gantry cranes), and yard equipment has improved loading/unloading times by up to 30%. AI is now used to predict vessel arrival times, berth allocations, and weather impacts.
Digital Port Ecosystems
Many top ports, such as Singapore and Rotterdam, have created Port Community Systems (PCS) and digital twins to share data among customs, logistics, and shipping lines in real time.
Sustainability Initiatives
Amid IMO’s GHG Strategy, ports are investing in:
- Cold ironing (shore power for ships)
- LNG and biofuel bunkering stations
- Electric drayage trucks
- Emissions measurement tools
Case Study: Singapore’s Tuas Mega Port
Launched in 2021, Tuas Mega Port is transforming Singapore into the world’s smartest port. Once completed by 2040, it will handle up to 65 million TEUs annually, featuring fully automated yard cranes, AI-berthing optimization, and sustainable infrastructure.
It’s a powerful example of how a compact island nation uses space, technology, and international policy to dominate the global logistics map.
Challenges Faced by the World’s Busiest Ports
Congestion and Dwell Times
Ports like Los Angeles and Shanghai have faced severe bottlenecks, especially during COVID-19. Container dwell times increased by over 50% in some locations, affecting global supply chains.
Labour Strikes and Political Tensions
Industrial actions, like those at European ports in 2022, can reduce throughput and disrupt schedules.
Climate Events and Sea Level Rise
Storm surges, extreme weather, and rising sea levels (documented by IMO and NOAA) threaten low-lying port infrastructure.
Geopolitical Risks
The Red Sea and Taiwan Strait tensions are reminders that ports must also plan for trade route rerouting and insurance fluctuations.
Future Outlook: Port Expansion and Global Trade Shifts
According to the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index (2023), ports will need to increase resilience, automation, and flexibility to meet growing trade needs.
Emerging trends include:
- Rise of green ports in Scandinavia and the Middle East
- Development of Arctic trade routes (Russia’s Northern Sea Route)
- India and Vietnam’s push for major port infrastructure
In 5–10 years, ports like Nhava Sheva (India), Lagos (Nigeria), or Port Said (Egypt) may begin climbing the TEU ranks.
FAQ: Busiest Container Ports
What is a TEU? TEU stands for Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit, the standard size for measuring shipping containers and port activity.
Which port handles the most cargo in the world? By TEU volume, the Port of Shanghai is the world’s busiest container port.
Why are Chinese ports dominating the list? China’s large manufacturing base, export-driven economy, and investment in maritime infrastructure drive high container traffic.
How are ports becoming more sustainable? Through cold ironing, electric cranes, low-emission fuels, and environmental compliance with IMO 2023 GHG Strategy.
Will automation replace port workers? Automation will reduce manual tasks, but ports will still need skilled labour for system oversight, maintenance, and security.
How do geopolitical tensions affect port operations? They can disrupt supply routes, raise shipping costs, and necessitate port adaptations for rerouting and security.
Conclusion: Ports as Pillars of Maritime Power
Behind every laptop, T-shirt, or car part is a container that passed through one of these ports. The world’s busiest ports by TEU volume are more than infrastructure—they’re the lifelines of trade, diplomacy, and global development. Their ability to handle rising cargo volumes with precision, sustainability, and resilience will shape the future of global commerce.
As green technologies, automation, and global trade lanes evolve, the busiest ports will need to balance scale with agility. For maritime professionals, port planners, and supply chain stakeholders, staying informed on these developments isn’t optional—it’s essential.
References
- UNCTAD Review of Maritime Transport 2024
- Lloyd’s List Intelligence Port Performance Rankings
- International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH)
- IMO GHG Strategy 2023
- World Bank Logistics Performance Index 2023
- MarineTraffic Port Statistics
- DNV Maritime Insights
- Port of Singapore Authority – Tuas Mega Port
- Rotterdam Port Authority SmartPort Strategy
- Journal of Maritime Affairs – Springer
- ICS Shipping Reports