Ningbo-Zhoushan Port has delivered a robust start to the year, posting solid gains in both cargo and container throughput despite an increasingly complex global geopolitical climate and shifting trade dynamics. The world’s busiest port by cargo tonnage handled 370 million tonnes in the first quarter, a 4.1 per cent rise year on year, while container throughput climbed sharply to 11.55 million TEU, up 14.7 per cent.
Bulk commodities remained a key driver of performance, with iron ore and crude oil throughput each exceeding 10 million tonnes, reinforcing the resilience of industrial and supply chains across the Yangtze River Delta. Essential goods, including coal and grain, were also moved efficiently, underscoring the port’s critical role in supporting domestic demand.
Vehicle exports emerged as a standout growth segment, with 80,000 units shipped via international roll-on/roll-off services during the quarter — a surge of 96.1 per cent compared with the same period last year — reflecting strong global demand for China’s key export industries.
Sea-rail intermodal operations continued to expand steadily, with the port handling 507,000 TEU, marking a 5.6 per cent increase and highlighting ongoing improvements in multimodal connectivity. Alongside throughput gains, the port has accelerated its push towards greener operations.
Liquefied natural gas bunkering capacity has been expanded, while East China’s first cross-border bonded biofuel bunkering service has been launched. Bonded fuel oil bunkering volumes reached 261,000 tonnes, up 25.5 per cent year on year, signalling growing momentum in sustainable maritime practices.