Without losing momentum, the maritime sector of China enjoyed another extremely successful year. The volume of containers handled at 12 major Chinese ports totaled 276.4 million TEUs between January and October 2024, representing an increase of 7.6% compared to the same period the previous year.
Port of Shanghai – 43.25 million TEUs
The Port of Shanghai maintained its leading position for the fourth consecutive year, handling 43.25 million TEUs, an annual increase of 7.6%. In the first quarter of 2024, the port recorded a growth of 10% compared to the previous year. Furthermore, the port has been advancing in decarbonization initiatives, collaborating with international partners to reduce emissions in maritime transport.
Fast Shipping team on a technical visit to the Port of Shanghai
2. Port of Ningbo-Zhoushan – 32.83 million TEUs
Located in the province of Zhejiang, the Port of Ningbo-Zhoushan has remained in second place for the fourth consecutive year, handling 32.83 million TEUs, an annual increase of 8.8%. Recently, the port discussed best practices and explored new ways of onshore energy consumption with international partners.
3. Port of Shenzhen – 27.66 million TEUs
The Port of Shenzhen maintained its third position for the third consecutive year, handling 27.66 million TEUs, a year-on-year increase of 14.9%. The port also intensified its decarbonization efforts, signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the Port of Long Beach and other partners to work together on decarbonizing maritime trade.
4. Port of Qingdao – 25.76 million TEUs
The Port of Qingdao maintained its fourth position for the third consecutive year, handling 25.76 million TEUs, a year-on-year increase of 7.8%. Although there was a slowdown compared to the 11.7% growth in 2023, the port continues to be one of the busiest in China.
5. Port of Guangzhou – 21.75 million TEUs
The Port of Guangzhou maintained the fifth position for the third consecutive year, handling 21.75 million TEUs, an annual increase of 4.7%. Although this is the lowest annual growth among the listed ports, it represents an improvement compared to the 2.5% growth achieved in 2023. This year, the port partnered with the Port of Piraeus to increase green investments and innovative solutions aimed at minimizing carbon emissions.
Overall, China’s main ports continued to show robust growth in 2024, with significant efforts focused on sustainability and the decarbonization of port operations.





