Hapag-Lloyd reports improved Q1 earnings but predicts lower full-year results

On the basis of preliminary and unaudited figures, Hapag-Lloyd achieved a 17% increase in Group EBITDA over the prior-year figure, to USD 1.1 billion (EUR 1.0 billion), in the first quarter of 2025. In the same period, the Group EBIT improved by 24%, to USD 0.5 billion (EUR 0.5 billion).

The main drivers of this positive development were a transport volume of 3.3 million TEU and an average freight rate of 1,480 USD/TEU, both of which were 9% higher than in the same quarter of 2024 due to strong demand.

“We got 2025 off to a good start in the first quarter, but the market environment is currently characterised by many uncertainties,” said Rolf Habben Jansen, CEO of Hapag-Lloyd AG. “We therefore continue to expect lower results for 2025 as a whole. We will rigorously implement our Strategy 2030, set a new standard of quality in the market for our customers with our Gemini Cooperation, and further expand Hanseatic Global Terminals. At the same time, we will make our fleet even more efficient and continue to decarbonise it. In addition, we will keep a close eye on our costs and work intensively on becoming even more digital and efficient,”

For the 2025 financial year, the Executive Board continues to expect the Group EBITDA to be in the range of USD 2.5 to 4.0 billion (EUR 2.4 to 3.9 billion) and the Group EBIT to be in the range of USD 0.0 to 1.5 billion (EUR 0.0 to 1.5 billion). This forecast remains subject to considerable uncertainty due to the volatile development of freight rates and major geopolitical challenges.

Both the ongoing tense situation in the Red Sea and the global trade conflict could have a significant impact on supply and demand in container shipping and thus also on Hapag-Lloyd's earnings performance, the company said.