Global container traffic remains stable as northern European ports gain

Global container traffic remained broadly stable in August despite continued disruption to major shipping routes, while volumes at northern European ports increased markedly, according to the latest RWI/ISL Container Throughput Index.

The index, compiled by Germany's RWI – Leibniz Institute for Economic Research and the Institute of Shipping Economics and Logistics (ISL), edged up from a revised 141.8 points in July to 141.9 points in August.

The figures suggest that international goods trade remained resilient despite continuing uncertainty in the Persian Gulf and additional risks to shipping in the Red Sea.

Developments differed considerably between major port regions. The North Range Index, covering important northern European ports and regarded as an early indicator of economic activity in the northern euro area, rose from a revised 120.5 points to 123.9 points.

Container throughput at Chinese ports, by contrast, was unchanged at an index level of 155.8 points.

RWI head of economic research Torsten Schmidt said the strong increase at northern European ports was particularly notable given that pressures on international trade had not eased. Low water levels on the Rhine were also likely to have constrained German exports, he added.

According to Schmidt, the figures indicate that German exporters have so far been able to manage increased uncertainty and more complicated logistics planning.

Container throughput provides an early indication of developments in international trade in manufactured goods and is therefore relevant for export-oriented industries including steel and steel-consuming sectors.

The RWI/ISL index is based on monthly throughput data from 90 international ports accounting for around 64% of global container traffic. The August flash estimate is based on data covering 66% of the throughput represented in the index.

The September 2026 Container Throughput Index is scheduled for publication on 30 October.

Source: RWI, Photo: Fotolia