Singapore tops 2025 Xinhua-Baltic International Shipping Centre Development Index, marking 12-year streak

Baltic Exchange, in collaboration with Xinhua News Agency, announces the release of the 2025 Xinhua-Baltic International Shipping Centre Development Index (ISCDI) Report. This annual report, now in its 12th year, ranks the world’s leading shipping centres based on a comprehensive evaluation of port factors, professional business services, and the general environment.

For the 12th consecutive year, Singapore has been recognised as the world’s leading shipping centre, achieving a score of 99.50 out of 100. Singapore’s enduring success is attributed to its strategic location, robust international outlook, and a well-established ecosystem of professional maritime services.

London once again secured second position with a score of 81.02, demonstrating its continued prominence as a maritime support services powerhouse. Shanghai, with a score of 81.01, retained third place, highlighting its significant role as a major port city in Asia. London and Shanghai have maintained their positions within the Index for the past five years.

Hong Kong (80.77) and Dubai (75.97) rounded out the top five, emphasising the strength and importance of these key global shipping hubs. Rotterdam solidified its position as a European leader by maintaining its strong sixth place from 2024 to 2025.

Ningbo Zhoushan and Athens/Piraeus swapped positions this year, with Ningbo Zhoushan moving up to seventh and Athens/Piraeus settling in eighth, while Hamburg remains steady in ninth.

New York/New Jersey rounded out the top 10 owing to its strong cargo handling despite major disruptions and strikes, continued investment in port infrastructure, and its leading role as a global centre for shipping finance and maritime services.