Global container volumes reach record 17.3M TEUs in July

Global container volumes reached a record 17.3 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in July 2026, according to data from Container Trades Statistics Ltd (CTS). This figure represents a 4.5% increase year-on-year and surpassed the previous monthly record set in May 2026.

Despite disruptions such as low water levels in the Panama Canal, the Gulf Crisis, and rising oil prices, international trade has shown resilience. The Far East led global export growth with an increase of nearly 9% year-to-date. Sub-Saharan Africa also saw significant regional import growth, rising 14% year-to-date.

Freight costs have trended upward, with the Global Price Index rising to 115 points in July. This is a seven-point increase from the previous month and a 37% increase compared to July 2025. Since the beginning of 2026, the index has climbed approximately 47%.