Most of the global economy is dependent on sea trade, most of which is operated in container ports. From transporting everyday electronics to rare foods, these gateways handle millions of tons of cargo each year. But what are the most heavily operated ports in the world?
In this article, we will explore the top 10 busiest ports in 2024, as well as what you should know about them.
1. Shanghai, China
For almost 20 years, Shanghai has been the busiest seaport in the world, carrying this title into 2024. Every year, it moves over 47 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) of goods, setting it apart from all the other ports on the list. The location along the East China Sea contributes to the port’s value, bringing extensive amounts of both exported and imported goods there. Additionally, it features the world’s largest container terminal, Yangshan Port, making it a key player in global trade.
Although the port’s size (over 3,500 sq.k.) helps with the efficiency of handling large-scale cargo movement, the traffic can be a problem. All operators are advised to acknowledge the port’s regulations and work closely with local partners to avoid getting stuck in the ship flow.
2. Singapore
Singapore has been one of the busiest ports of the 21st century. Processing almost 40 million TEUs annually, this island giant is a vital import and export hub in Southeast Asia. Its strategic location between the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea makes it a major transshipment hub in the region. Interesting fact - nearly 85% of Singapore port’s container cargo is transhipped to other locations!
Besides beneficial geography, Singapore Port has a few more things to boast. Its cutting-edge technology, like automated cranes and smart solutions, is making container handling way faster. The port also has free-trade agreements and an efficient customs clearance process, making it an attractive choice for importers and exporters across the globe.
The port was one of the key factors of the Singapore Economic Miracle, once again proving the importance of international sea trade.
3. Ningbo-Zhoushan, China
Ningbo-Zhoushan is China’s second-largest port and the third busiest worldwide. The annual turnover is just over 33 million TEUs, with almost 100,000 daily. The port is located south of Hangzhou Bay in China, which allows it to integrate both sea and river cargo. The port operates products like petroleum, textiles, chemicals, and automobiles.
The port has excellent rail and road connections with the rest of Zhejiang province, making it an excellent logistical solution. However, it also causes quite heavy traffic, especially during China’s export seasons. It is recommended that the shipping be planned and scheduled in advance to avoid port congestion.
4. Shenzhen, China
With around 30.5 million TEUs of annual throughput, Shenzhen plays a key role in China’s manufacturing industry. It also makes it one of the busiest ports in the world. Just like with the other ports, Shenzhen boasts a beneficial position - it is located in the Pearl River Delta, close to Hong Kong. The port itself consists of Shekou, Yantian, and Chiwan, each specializing in its type of cargo.
Its proximity to such manufacturing and trade giants as Hong Kong and Dongguan makes Shenzhen a cornerstone of China’s economy. However, this is also the reason for container backlogs during high-traffic periods, which need to be considered while planning.
5. Guangzhou, China
Located in proximity to Shenzhen and Hong Kong, the Guangzhou seaport handles over 24 million TEUs annually, serving as a link between China’s southern industrial base and global markets. Its terminals along the Pearl River handle diverse cargo, including steel, industrial machinery, automobiles, and consumer electronics.
Guangzhou is a logistical miracle, handling almost any cargo and being a vital part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Moreover, the city’s wide inland waterways allow for the smooth distribution of goods inside the Guangdong region, making it a key player in the inner market as well.
6. Qingdao, China
Located at the Yellow Sea, Qingdao handles over 23 million TEUs annually, focusing on marine products, chemicals, and bulk cargo. The port is one of the most modernized ones in China, boasting advanced automation and container tracking systems. Additionally, the port has excellent road and rail links to China’s northern industrial regions.
Qingdao is a common choice for heavy industrial materials and perishable goods due to its combination of speed and efficiency. In addition to that, its location makes the port a crucial hub for shipping to South Korea, Japan, and Southeast Asia.
7. Busan, South Korea
Continuing with the North of China, Busan is another one of the world’s largest ports, operating around 22 million TEUs annually. This is the port that is also a major transshipment hub with trade links between Japan, China, and the Americas.
Companies involved in East Asian trade often pick Busan due to the quick access it gives to regional markets. The port is also projected to expand its terminal capacity and improve its smart logistics solutions, shortening turnaround times.
8. Hong Kong
Hong Kong continues to rank among the world's major ports, handling over 17.5 million TEUs yearly, despite growing competition from Chinese ports on the mainland. Hong Kong's port, which has close links to international trade in high-value commodities, including luxury goods, electronics, and textiles, is a reflection of the city's longstanding status as a hub for global banking.
Hong Kong's free-market principles, advantageous location, and first-rate shipping and customs facilities are all advantages for businesses operating there. Major shipping routes that travel through Southeast Asia and on to Europe and North America are connected to Hong Kong's port. It is also a good choice for companies seeking flexibility in their logistical operations because of its closeness to Shenzhen.
9. Tianjin, China
One of the most significant ports in northern China is Tianjin, handling over 18 million TEUs a year. Tianjin, which is only 150 kilometers from Beijing, is essential to the transportation of commodities from the capital to the rest of the globe. The port is a significant entry point for goods and raw materials imported into the industrial and consumer markets of northern China.
With well-developed road, rail, and air connectivity, Tianjin boasts significant inland transportation networks that provide a strategic edge for businesses. The port of Tianjin is an essential component of the northern economy of China since it specializes in processing big shipments of coal, iron ore, and machinery.
10. Rotterdam, the Netherlands
The busiest port in Europe, Rotterdam, handles more than 14.8 million TEUs a year. Because of its advantageous location between the Rhine River and the North Sea, it is the main entry and exit point for cargo into and out of Europe. The Maasvlakte II port in Rotterdam is one of the most sophisticated in the world, with deep-water berths that can accommodate the biggest container ships and completely automated container cranes.
Rotterdam's vast rail, road, and waterway network makes it one of the most effective entry ports for companies shipping to Europe. The port is a pioneer in environmental sustainability as well, providing low-carbon shipping options that are in high demand from global businesses.
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FAQ
What is the busiest container port in the world?
Shanghai is the busiest seaport in the world, handling over 47 million TEUs a year.
What is the busiest port in Europe?
In Europe, the busiest port is Rotterdam, which has an annual turnaround of almost 15 million TEUs.
Is Singapore the busiest port in the world?
Close, but no. Singapore is one of the world’s largest ports, moving almost 40 million TEUs
What country has the most container port traffic?
China dominates global port traffic, with several of the busiest ports in the world, such as Shanghai, Ningbo-Zhoushan, and Shenzhen.
