Global Container Ship Orders Reach 16.2 Million TEU, Highest Level Since 2009

Global container ship orders have climbed to approximately 16.2 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU), equivalent to 46.5% of the existing global container fleet’s capacity, according to data from shipping analytics firm Linerlytica. The orderbook has reached its highest level since 2009, highlighting the continued expansion of the global shipping industry. The growing pipeline of new vessels reflects shipowners’ efforts to increase capacity and prepare for evolving demand across international trade routes.

MSC continues to expand its fleet, with reports indicating that the company has added 20 vessels to its orderbook, representing approximately 2.4 million TEU. This comes on top of an existing orderbook of around 2.7 million TEU, bringing its reported total to approximately 62 vessels. The scale of these orders underscores the ongoing competition among major carriers to strengthen fleet capacity and their positions in the global container shipping market.

Meanwhile, HMM confirmed on October 20 that it had signed a memorandum of understanding with HD Hyundai Marine Solution for the construction of eight 13,000-TEU LNG dual-fuel container ships. The project represents another step toward adopting alternative-fuel vessels and improving operational efficiency. LNG dual-fuel technology is increasingly being considered by shipping companies seeking to respond to environmental regulations and reduce emissions, although its long-term role will depend on fuel availability, infrastructure and evolving decarbonization requirements.

The latest orderbook figures point to a substantial pipeline of new container ship capacity entering the market in the coming years. According to the report, HMM also plans to invest approximately KRW 1.92 trillion (about USD 1.4 billion) in a trans-Arctic shipping route connecting South Korea and Europe, including four 2,800-TEU ice-class vessels and one 1,700-TEU vessel. For shippers and importers, continued fleet expansion could influence future freight rates, vessel availability and route competition, although the actual market impact will depend on delivery schedules, global cargo demand and capacity management by carriers.