Global container trade sets fresh record

Global container trade reached a new monthly record in August 2026, with volumes rising to 17.46 million twenty-foot equivalent units (teu), according to Container Trades Statistics (CTS), despite mounting disruption and cost pressures across shipping markets.

The latest CTS figures show August volumes were 3.7% higher than a year earlier, while year-to-date trade remained 4.7% above 2025 levels. Volumes also exceeded August 2024 by 7.2% and August 2023 by 12.9%.

“Global container volumes continue to demonstrate considerable resilience,” Container Trades Statistics said in its assessment of the August market, highlighting the strength of demand despite uncertainty over fuel prices, geopolitical disruption, canal constraints and tariffs.

However, the organisation warned that slower month-on-month growth could signal a loss of momentum as the year progresses.

The CTS Global Price Index rose to 117 points in August, its highest level since July 2024. The index has increased by approximately 50% since January and was 44% higher than in August 2025.

The pricing trend reflects pressures associated with disruption to key shipping routes, vessel rerouting, capacity constraints and higher operating costs, CTS reported.

North American imports continued their gradual recovery, rising 2% year to date. Transpacific trade was 5% higher over the same period, supported by increased cargo originating in the Far East. Sub-Saharan Africa recorded the strongest regional import growth, at 13%.

The Far East also led export performance, with volumes up 8% year to date, representing approximately 6.3 million additional teu. All destination regions recorded growth in Far Eastern exports, with Sub-Saharan Africa and South and Central America leading in percentage terms.

By contrast, imports into the Indian Sub-Continent and Middle East fell 5% year to date, while exports from the region declined 10%, equivalent to almost one million fewer teu than in 2025.

CTS said the relationship between resilient container volumes and elevated freight prices would be a key trend to watch as the market approaches the final quarter of 2026.