Global port rankings are typically based on different metrics, most commonly container throughput (TEU) and cargo throughput (tons). Here's an overview of the leading global ports based on 2023 data and some preliminary 2024 statistics:
2023 Global Container Throughput (TEU) Rankings
Based on currently available data, the top ten global container ports in 2023 are generally as follows (data may vary slightly depending on the statistical agency):
Port of Shanghai (China): 49.16 million TEUs (ranked first globally for many consecutive years)
Port of Singapore (Singapore): 39.01 million TEUs
Port of Ningbo-Zhoushan (China): 35.30 million TEUs
Port of Shenzhen (China): 29.88 million TEUs
Port of Qingdao (China): 28.76 million TEUs
Port of Guangzhou (China): 25.41 million TEUs
Port of Busan (South Korea): 22.75 million TEUs
Port of Tianjin (China): 22.19 million TEUs
Jebel Ali Port, Dubai (UAE): 14.47 million TEUs
Port Klang (Malaysia): 14.06 million TEUs Note: Hong Kong's Kwai Tsing Container Terminals handled 14.34 million TEUs in 2023, ranking slightly below Port Klang; some reports might place it at 10th.
As you can see, Chinese ports dominate global container throughput, with 7 of the top ten being Chinese ports.
2023 Global Cargo Throughput (Tons) Rankings
For cargo throughput, the Port of Ningbo-Zhoushan continues to maintain its global lead:
Port of Ningbo-Zhoushan (China): Handled 1.324 billion tons of cargo in 2023, ranking first globally for many consecutive years.
Other major cargo ports include: Port of Tangshan, Port of Shanghai, Port of Qingdao, Port of Guangzhou, Port of Rizhao, Port of Suzhou, Port of Tianjin, Port of Yantai, and Beibu Gulf Port (rankings may fluctuate, but Chinese ports are generally at the forefront).
In summary:
The Port of Shanghai has been ranked first globally in container throughput for 14 consecutive years.
The Port of Ningbo-Zhoushan has been ranked first globally in cargo throughput for many consecutive years and is also third globally in container throughput.