Maritime and other transport

Asian ports continue to dominate global rankings, with Shanghai (2 439), Ningbo-Zhoushan (2 110), and Singapore (1 883) leading in the third quarter of 2026. All three have recorded sustained long-term growth since 2006, with index values rising from the previous quarter. Busan (1 655) and Qingdao (1 422) complete the top five, reaffirming Asia’s stronghold in global port liner shipping connectivity.

Despite disruptions—including port congestion, the COVID-19 pandemic, and evolving trade patterns—these ports have improved their performance over time. Their resilience reflects sustained investment in infrastructure, digital systems, and intermodal integration, strengthening their role in global maritime networks.

Malaga (Spain) recorded the strongest percentage growth in the Port Liner Shipping Connectivity Index over the period, with its connectivity increasing by 1 215% between the third quarter of 2016 and the third quarter of 2026, reflecting a more than tenfold expansion over the decade. It is followed by Puerto Bolivar (Ecuador), which registered a 707% increase, and Aliaga (Nemrut) (Türkiye), where connectivity rose by 380%.

Other ports in the top ten include Zhapu (China), Batam Island (Indonesia), Chah bahar (Iran (Islamic Republic of)), Archangel (Russian Federation), Port Hueneme (United States), Haugesund (Norway) and Derince (Türkiye). While several of these ports started from relatively low levels of connectivity in 2016, they recorded strong relative gains over the decade, with increases ranging from 251% to 308%.