Global shipping fleet capacity hits 34 million TEU as Port Gdańsk sets records

The global container shipping fleet reached a capacity of over 34 million TEU in September, according to Alphaliner data. BIMCO analyst Niels Rasmussen noted that the fleet's capacity grew by 10 million TEU in just 5.5 years, a significantly faster rate than the 10.5 years it took to grow by a similar amount previously. This rapid expansion is attributed to high new vessel deliveries combined with exceptionally low recycling rates for older ships.

In the regional maritime sector, Port Gdańsk reported a historic record in August 2026, with monthly throughput exceeding 8 million tons for the first time. This represents a 13.3 percent year-on-year increase. Key drivers included a 21 percent rise in general cargo and a 15 percent increase in container tonnage. Liquid fuels remain the largest cargo group at the port, accounting for nearly half of the August volume.