The Port of Shanghai is strengthening its grip on global port rankings after maintaining its lead position for five years. Shanghai previously stole the top spot from the Port of Singapore, according to the Journal of Commerce.
Recent results and future economic projections signify that it would be highly unlikely for a port outside of Asia to claim the global leading position, since eight of the top 10 biggest ports are based in this region.
The ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach made the top 10 spot in 2014, however, the amount of cargo handled is still significantly lower than the domineering ports in Asia, and the American duo only reached the top 10 by being counted together, despite operating as separate entities.
Recent strike action along the US West Coast also suggests that it could take some time for Los Angeles and Long Beach to pick up the pace and compete on a global scale with Asian ports, which can also facilitate much bigger vessels.
The Port of Shanghai handled 1.6 million more TEU in 2014 over 2013, suggesting consistent year-on-year progression at the port.
The global rankings for 2014 saw Shenzhen, Ningo and Hong Kong follow Singapore in the top 5 ports, all handling over 19 million TEU for 2014, with Shenzhen and Ningo seeing significant increases in volumes in comparison to a year prior.
