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Economic uncertainties dragged global container volume by 4.5% in April, according to the latest report of Container Trades Statistics
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Most regions saw a decline in imports compared to March
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North America saw the largest import fall, dropping 11.5%, with 10% of this decrease attributed to a pullback in Far East exports
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Far East imports also saw a significant 5.1% slide, driven primarily by reduced exports to North America
Economic uncertainties dragged global container volume by 4.5% in April, Container Trades Statistics (CTS) said in a statement.
Most regions saw a decline in imports compared to March, with the exception of South & Central America and Sub-Saharan Africa, which saw small hikes of 2.9% and 2%, respectively.
While these upticks may appear modest, they demonstrate resilience amidst the broader downturn, according to CTS.
North America experienced the largest import fall, dropping 11.5%, with 10% of this decrease attributed to a pullback in Far East exports.
Far East imports also saw a significant 5.1% slide, driven primarily by reduced exports to North America.
Transpacific trade remains a key area to watch as the year progresses.
Exports, meanwhile, showed a similar trend, with most regions experiencing month-on-month (MoM) declines. The largest drops were seen in the Indian Sub-Continent & Middle East and Europe, which fell by 11.2% and 8%, MoM respectively.
Despite these declines, all export regions showed year-on-year growth. South & Central America, in particular, saw a 10% increase compared to April 2024, driven by a rise in cargo shipments to Sub-Saharan Africa and North America.
The global price index continued to soften in April 2025, decreasing by two points to stand at 78. This marks the lowest level since June 2023, continuing a downward trend that started in December 2024.
The most significant change in the price index between March and April this year occurred in the Far East to Indian Sub-Continent & Middle East trade lane, which saw a 9-point increase.
While the month-on-month figures for April 2025 may appear somewhat subdued following the record-breaking March 2025, it’s important to remember that March was an exceptional month, and even a strong performance can seem less robust when compared to such a peak and compared to a month with an extra day, CTS explained.
Volumes year-to-date are still strong, up 5.8% compared to 2024, potentially providing a positive outlook for the rest of the year.
Moving further into 2025, the global trade statistician said it will be crucial to monitor smaller trade lanes that could become the missing piece in patterns as the market adjusts to new dynamics.
Meanwhile, the revised March 2025 global container volumes now hold the record for the highest global liftings ever recorded, standing at 16.3 million TEUs.
Whether this surge is due to shippers stockpiling in anticipation of economic changes or not, it highlights a strong start to 2025.
READ: Impressive March global container volume highlights market strength
