Over the past 25 years, the capacity operated by carriers in the container shipping industry has grown immensely. 

In 2000, the 50 largest carriers moved a combined 2.5 million TEU. These carriers now operate 26.7 million TEU, increasing their collective capacity by 983%. This equates to an average annual growth rate of 10% over the past 25 years. Only 24 of the original carriers remain, highlighting significant consolidation.

Sea-Intelligence reports that 26 new carriers have entered the top 50 rankings. However, these carriers only account for 6% of the global fleet, compared to the 84% held by the established carriers. 

Historically, it took the industry 50 years to reach the 5 million TEU milestone in 2001. In contrast, it has taken just seven years to expand from 20 million TEU to 30 million TEU.

The global fleet is now expected to surpass 32 million TEU, fueled by record newbuild deliveries from Asian shipyards, according to Alphaliner.

Source: splash247.com