The global container shipping industry continues to expand, setting a new record for fleet capacity in 2025, according to Alphaliner. Despite a slowdown in growth compared to previous years, major players like Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) and CMA CGM are still scaling up their operations, with CMA CGM surpassing the 4 million TEU capacity milestone for the first time.
In the first half of 2025, the global container vessel fleet added 1.18 million TEU in capacity, reflecting a modest growth rate of under 4%. This marks a significant shift from the rapid expansion seen in recent years. However, the order books remain robust, with the global container vessel sector now boasting a total capacity of 32.7 million TEU across 7,336 operational vessels, representing a combined deadweight tonnage of 388 million tons.
Top Shipping Lines See Steady Growth
Nine of the top ten global container shipping companies reported an average capacity increase of 4% in the first half of 2025. MSC continues to dominate, accounting for 31% of the sector’s total growth and expanding its capacity to 6.6 million TEU. This growth further widens the gap between MSC and its competitors, with Maersk holding steady at 4.6 million TEU and CMA CGM breaking the 4 million TEU threshold.
MSC’s fleet expansion has been fueled by the addition of 365,173 TEU through new ship deliveries and second-hand acquisitions. By mid-2025, MSC had taken delivery of 25 new vessels, including 12 Panamax container ships, further bolstering its independent route network.
ONE Leads the Pack in Growth Momentum
While MSC remains the largest player, Japan’s Oceanic NetLink Shipping (ONE) has emerged as the fastest-growing container line, with a nearly 6% increase in capacity. This marks a strategic shift for ONE as it begins to take delivery of new vessels.
CMA CGM also continues to make waves, achieving a 4% capacity increase and reaching 4 million TEU with a fleet of 683 owned or leased ships. Over the past 16 years, CMA CGM has quadrupled its capacity, solidifying its position as the world’s third-largest container shipping company.
Freight Rates Decline Amid Overcapacity
Despite the growth in fleet capacity, the container shipping market faces short-term challenges. Freight rates continue to decline, with Xeneta reporting that shipping companies are deploying more capacity than current demand requires. Overcapacity is particularly pronounced in the U.S. East Coast region, adding to market uncertainty driven by geopolitical factors and tariff policies.
MSC’s Order Book Signals Continued Dominance
Looking ahead, MSC is poised to maintain its leadership position with the largest order book in the industry—135 vessels under construction, totaling 2.2 million TEU. CMA CGM follows closely with 95 vessels under construction, adding 1.5 million TEU to its capacity.
As CMA CGM narrows the gap with Maersk, currently the second-largest container line, it’s on track to claim the #2 spot in the near future. With just a 600,000 TEU difference, CMA CGM’s aggressive expansion strategy could soon reshape the industry’s rankings.
The global container shipping sector may be navigating turbulent waters, but its trajectory remains one of resilience and growth. ©2006-2023 iMarine.cn