OOCL reports improved H1 results but warns of market uncertainty and impact of US tariffs

Orient Overseas (International) Limited, parent of OOCL, last week announced a profit attributable to equity holders of US$954.2 million for the six-month period ended 30th June 2025, compared to a profit of US$833.3 million for the same period in 2024. 

OOCL's total liftings for the first half of 2025 increased by 7% and total liner revenues increased by 4% year on year.  Despite being only a single digit improvement, the year-on-year performance is the best post-pandemic period in terms of both liftings and liner revenue. 

However, the company points out that geopolitical uncertainties still significantly influence the shipping market. “If the situation in the Red Sea was a defining factor which contributed to the strong performance of the container shipping market in 2024,’ it says, “then the ongoing changes in tariff policies and trade disputes have undoubtedly played a decisive role in shaping market trends in the first half of 2025.

“The additional port charges levied by the U.S. on Chinese carriers will have a relatively large impact on the Group.  On the other hand, as global trade patterns shift to becoming more regional, market divergence may occur, or there may be delayed or deferred responses due to extended or restructured supply chains, all of which may be potentially creating opportunities for shipping companies to refine their strategies in segmented markets.”

Meanwhile, OOCL continues to strengthen its synergy with COSCO SHIPPING Lines in areas such as cost optimisation and risk diversification.  This not only helps OOCL enhance its operational efficiency and market competitiveness, but also supports its global network deployment.

The carrier also continues to grow and optimise its fleet. In the first half of 2025, it took delivery of five 16,828 TEU container vessels, marking an upgrade of our fleet on Trans-Pacific routes.  We also placed an order for fourteen 18,500 TEU class methanol dual-fuel container vessels, once again demonstrating the Group's commitment to building a green fleet and supporting global energy conservation and emissions reduction.