New global benchmark ranks top container ports worldwide

Singapore is named the world’s leading container port in the first edition of the Leading Container Ports of the World (LCP) report, an independent global benchmark published by DNV and Menon Economics. Shanghai and Ningbo-Zhoushan follow in second and third place, with Rotterdam and Busan completing the global top five.

In addition to the global ranking, the LCP report features regional rankings, with New York & New Jersey, Hamburg, Tanger Med, Jebel Ali and Sydney recognized as leaders in their respective regions.

The LCP report benchmarks 160 ports against 35 indicators grouped into five pillars: enablers, connectivity and customer value, productivity, sustainability, and overall impact. These indicators are based on objective data, such as throughput volumes, berth productivity, emissions per TEU, and alternative fuel availability, and are complemented by expert assessments from leading shipping stakeholders.

Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen (pictured), CEO Maritime at DNV, commented: “Container ports quietly underpin much of the global economy. Every year, they move more than 930 million TEUs, supporting the flow of goods that keep businesses running and communities supplied.

“As global trade patterns shift and the industry faces new pressures, ports that are able to adapt, communicate clear strategies, and invest in future-proofing their operations will continue to lead and set the pace for the sector’s evolution. This report aims to provide trusted insights that help ports and stakeholders navigate these changes with confidence.”



The report recommends that ports invest in scalable infrastructure, accelerate digitalisation, and lead on sustainability while maintaining strong customer relationships and building resilience against disruptions. Clear strategic planning and transparent communication are identified as being essential for ports aiming to secure long-term competitiveness.