China’s ports handled a record 161.1 million TEU in the first half of 2026, growing 5.8% year-over-year, according to Alphaliner data cited by ShippingWatch. The growth has outpaced the 5.2% increase in the global container trade.

In the first half of 2026, Ningbo-Zhoushan handled 22.9 million TEU, up 8.8%, and surpassing Singapore, which recorded 22.7 million TEU and 4.7% growth, according to Seatrade Maritime News, citing Alphaliner data. The volume increase has driven Ningbo-Zhoushan to become the world’s second-largest container port in the first half of 2026,.

Seatrade Maritime News’ report attributed Ningbo-Zhoushan’s growth to capacity expansion and network development, which is said has added 17 international services, and helped the terminal increase its volumes by more than 20%.

ShippingWatch reported that growth across Chinese ports was due to “exports of high-tech and industrial products.” It also cited stronger trade flows to markets including the U.S., Africa, Latin America, Europe, and Southeast Asia, with exports to some of these markets reportedly rising by as much as 30%.

Shanghai maintained its position as the world’s largest container port, processing 28.7 million TEU, a 6.2% increase from the same period last year, according to Seatrade Maritime News. Meanwhile, Chinese ports have continued to dominate global rankings with six Chinese ports occupying positions within the world’s top ten container ports, as reported by Seatrade Maritime News.

Alphaliner’s post on X noted that the disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz resulted in Jebel Ali falling from 10th place globally to 32nd place in rankings. Volumes declined by 23% in Q1, and by more than 90% in Q2.

Sources: Shipping Watch, Seatrade Maritime News, Alphaliner