Maritime and other transport

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

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

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

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