Global container carrier fleet trends

Global container carriers are undergoing structural changes in fleet composition and registration strategies. Data indicates a broad industry shift toward direct vessel ownership rather than relying on the charter market. Major operators including MSC, Maersk, CMA CGM, and COSCO have all reduced their proportions of chartered capacity since early 2020.

Specifically, MSC’s chartered capacity fell from 72% to 36%, while CMA CGM’s declined from 63% to 34%. Maersk and COSCO have also seen reductions in chartered reliance. This trend toward ownership may reduce the ability of carriers to rapidly adjust capacity.

In addition to ownership shifts, individual carriers are adjusting registration plans due to economic pressures. CMA CGM announced it will scale back plans to expand its French-flagged fleet, deciding that seven large container ships scheduled for 2027 and 2028 will not be registered in France. The company cited the cost of requiring European officers on board—estimated at ‘1.75 million euros per ship per year’—and an upcoming 2027 surcharge on large companies with profits exceeding 2.1 billion euros as primary factors.