Harbouring ambitions: China’s port giants make waves with record growth

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 2 min read 100% complete by Carol YangJanuary 19, 2026 at 06:30 AM

AI Summary

short article 2 min

Despite global trade volatility in 2025, China experienced record growth in its port activity and trade surplus. In the first 11 months of 2025, China's foreign trade container throughput increased by 9.5% year-on-year, reaching 320 million TEU, contributing to a US$1.19 trillion trade surplus for the year. Major ports like Shanghai and Ningbo-Zhoushan saw record container throughput, with Shanghai exceeding 50 million TEU and Ningbo-Zhoushan surpassing 40 million TEU. Experts predict continued port capacity growth in China to support hinterland development and trade expansion. China's 2025 exports climbed 5.5% to US$3.77 trillion, remaining a key economic pillar despite a shift towards domestic consumption.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Singapore 40% Shanghai Maritime University 40% Zhejiang 50% Zhen Hong 50% Shanghai International Port Group 60% Ningbo-Zhoushan Port 60% Shanghai ×370% China ×590%

Keywords

port expansion 90% container throughput 80% foreign trade 70% trade surplus 60% port capacity 60% global trade 50% exports 50% economic growth 40% infrastructure 40%