port-and-ship
24 March 2025
Hellenic Shipping Newsport-and-ship
Mar 24, 2025Hellenic Shipping News
in Port News
24/03/2025
Groups from five African countries filed fraud and corruption complaints Wednesday accusing French billionaire Vincent Bollore and one of his sons of illegally obtaining and benefitting from port concessions.
Bollore Group’s African ports and logistics business, which the tycoon sold off in 2022, employed more than 20,000 people in 20 African countries, running 16 ports as well as warehouses and transport hubs across the continent.
Cyrille Bollore, his youngest son, became head of Bollore Africa Logistics in 2019, taking over from his father.
A collective made up of non-governmental organisations in Togo, Guinea, Ghana, Ivory Coast and Cameroon called “Restitution for Africa” are accusing the Bollore Group, Bollore and his son of unlawfully receiving favours to run ports then “laundering” money in those countries through the sale of its Africa logistics business.
Bollore did not immediately reply to an AFP request for comment.
French investigators have already looked into allegations that the Bollore Group had, through its consulting business, illegally backed the 2010 presidential campaigns of Faure Gnassingbe in Togo and Alpha Conde in Guinea, in exchange for port concessions in Lome and Conakry.
The group’s lawyers managed to negotiate a settlement, but French financial prosecutors in 2024 requested Vincent Bollore be tried on charges of corruption and complicity in breach of trust.
Wednesday’s complaint now accuses Bollore of corruption, benefitting from influence peddling and the unlawful taking of interests of local officials in Cameroon, Ghana and Ivory Coast.
It charges that this is how the group obtained concessions to run the ports of Douala and Kribi in Cameroon, Tema in Ghana, and Abidjan in Ivory Coast.
The collective alleges that the 2022 sale of Bollore Africa Logistics, whose profits came from these allegedly illegally obtained port concessions, amounted to money laundering.
Bollore’s holding company sold Bollore Africa Logistics to the MSC shipping group for 5.7 billion euros ($6.05 billion) in 2022.
It was thought at the time to be the mainstay of the tycoon’s fortune.
Bollore and his family are estimated to be worth $9.9 billion, according to Forbes. He owns several right-wing media outlets in France.
Source: AFP
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Genco Shipping & Trading Closes New $600 Million Revolving Credit Facility, Increasing Borrowing Capacity By 50%in Dry Bulk Market,International Shipping News
16/07/2025
Genco Shipping & Trading Limited, the largest U.S. headquartered drybulk shipowner focused on the global transportation of commodities, today announced it has closed a $600 million revolving credit facility, amending its existing facility to provide significant capacity to pursue accretive growth opportunities among other uses.
Key terms of the $600 million revolving credit facility include:
John C. Wobensmith, Chief Executive Officer, commented, “We are pleased to have meaningfully increased our borrowing capacity under attractive terms, which is a reflection of Genco’s industry leading balance sheet and our strong track record of executing our proven value strategy and providing shareholder returns through the drybulk cycle. Having significant capital readily available puts Genco in a highly advantageous position to act decisively to capture attractive growth opportunities for shareholders. We believe that Genco’s capital structure offers a compelling risk-reward balance, while also providing significant financial flexibility and optionality that goes hand-in-hand with our capital allocation strategy focused on dividends, deleveraging and growth. We maintain an overall positive view of the drybulk market, due to the solid supply side fundamentals, and with $500 million of undrawn revolver availability, we are in an optimal position to renew and grow our asset base.”
Peter Allen, Chief Financial Officer, commented, “With this latest increased $600 million credit facility, Genco achieved several important objectives, including upsizing our borrowing capacity, extending maturity, reducing margin, and improving several other key terms. Notably, the lack of commitment reductions until March 31, 2027 enables Genco to maintain the full $600 million of borrowing capacity for an extended period of time adding to our optionality as markets develop. Furthermore, the full revolving credit facility structure fits well into our broader capital allocation approach, providing the flexibility to continue to paydown debt while maintaining the ability to strategically access capital when attractive opportunities materialize. We appreciate the continued support of our high-quality bank group, as we continue to execute Genco’s strategy.”
Lenders of the revolving credit facility include reputable international shipping banks that are a part of our existing bank group. Nordea Bank Abp, New York Branch (“Nordea”) acted as Coordinator, Sustainability Coordinator, Administrative Agent, Collateral Agent and Security Trustee. Nordea, Skandinaviska Enskilda AB (publ), DNB Markets, Inc and ING Capital LLC acted as Mandated Lead Arrangers & Bookrunners, CTBC Bank Co., Ltd as Mandated Lead Arranger and First-Citizens Bank & Trust as Co-Arranger.
Genco has $100 million of debt outstanding and $500 million of undrawn revolver availability as of the date of this press release.
*Margin is based on a grid of 1.75% to 2.15% depending on total net indebtedness to EBITDA. This is down from 1.85% to 2.15% previously. The commitment fee on undrawn amounts is reduced from 40% of margin to 35% of margin.
Source: Genco Shipping & Trading Limited
Hellenic Shipping News
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16 July 20253 min readGenco Shipping & Trading Closes New $600 Million Revolving Credit Facility, Increasing Borrowing Capacity By 50%
Hellenic Shipping News
16 July 2025
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Dp World To Develop, Operate Syrian Port In $800M, 30-Year DealPhoto credit: DP World
DP World has signed a 30-year concession agreement with Syria’s General Authority for Land and Sea Ports to develop and operate the Port of Tartus, according to DP World announcement.
As part of the agreement, DP World will invest $800m over the duration of the concession to upgrade the port’s infrastructure and position it as a critical regional trade hub connecting Southern Europe, the Middle East and North Africa.
Following over a decade of conflict and long-standing underinvestment in trade infrastructure, the redevelopment of Tartus marks an important step in Syria’s economic reintegration.
Structured as a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model and fully owned by DP World, the project will include new infrastructure, advanced cargo-handling equipment, and digital systems to improve efficiency across the port’s container and general cargo terminals.
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, chairman and group CEO of DP World, said: “We see strong potential in Tartus to serve as a vital trade gateway and look forward to strengthening regional connectivity and economic opportunity through this investment. We believe in the power of trade to help drive long-term stability and prosperity for Syria and the region.”
Located on Syria’s Mediterranean coast, Tartus is the country’s second-largest port and a key maritime gateway to trade routes across Europe, the Levant and North Africa.
Its strategic position enhances regional connectivity, complementing existing routes through the Bosporus and Suez.
The redevelopment will enable Tartus to handle general cargo, containers, breakbulk, and roll-on/roll-off traffic, expanding Syria’s trade potential as the country continues to rebuild.
DP World will also explore opportunities to develop free zones, inland logistics hubs, and transit corridors in partnership with local stakeholders.
Trade drives reintegration and resilience.I’m proud to have signed a 30-year agreement to redevelop Syria’s Tartus Port – in the presence of President Ahmed Al-Sharaa – with a USD 800M investment to reconnect the region through trade and infrastructure. pic.twitter.com/TnZC5iVTa9
Shipping Telegraph
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15 July 20252 min readDp World To Develop, Operate Syrian Port In $800M, 30-Year Deal
Shipping Telegraph
15 July 2025
port-and-ship
Dp World To Invest $800M Developing Syrian PortDP World has signed a 30-year concession agreement with Syria’s General Authority for Land and Sea Ports to develop and operate the port of Tartus.
As part of the agreement, DP World will invest $800m over the duration of the concession to upgrade the port’s infrastructure and position it as a regional trade hub connecting southern Europe, the Middle East and North Africa.
Following over a decade of conflict and long-standing underinvestment in trade infrastructure, the redevelopment of Tartus marks an important step in Syria’s economic reintegration. Structured as a build-operate-transfer (BOT) model and fully owned by DP World, the project will include new infrastructure, advanced cargo-handling equipment, and digital systems to improve efficiency across the port’s container and general cargo terminals.
DP World will also explore opportunities to develop free zones, inland logistics hubs, and transit corridors in partnership with local stakeholders, supporting broader economic diversification and trade facilitation efforts.
In May, CMA CGM signed a 30-year deal with the new Syrian government to develop Latakia port, including building a new berth and investing $260m to bolster Syria’s top port.
Trade drives reintegration and resilience.I’m proud to have signed a 30-year agreement to redevelop Syria’s Tartus Port – in the presence of President Ahmed Al-Sharaa – with a USD 800M investment to reconnect the region through trade and infrastructure. pic.twitter.com/TnZC5iVTa9
Splash247
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14 July 20252 min readDp World To Invest $800M Developing Syrian Port
Splash247
14 July 2025
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Dp World Signs $800M Deal To Develop Tartus PortThe Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) deal includes an $800 million investment over the concession period to modernise the port and establish it as a strategic trade hub linking Southern Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa.
The agreement was signed in Damascus by Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman and Group CEO of DP World, and Qutaiba Ahmed Badawi, Chairman of the General Authority for Land and Sea Ports, in the presence of Syrian President His Excellency Ahmed Al-Sharaa.
Following over a decade of conflict and limited infrastructure investment, the Tartus redevelopment is a key step in Syria’s economic reintegration.
The project will introduce upgraded infrastructure, advanced cargo-handling equipment, and digital systems to improve operations across both container and general cargo terminals.
READ: DP World debuts scanner to cut customs delays in Constanta
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman and Group CEO of DP World, said: “We see strong potential in Tartus to serve as a vital trade gateway and look forward to strengthening regional connectivity and economic opportunity through this investment.
“We believe in the power of trade to help drive long-term stability and prosperity for Syria and the region.”
READ: DP World sets record with slag vessel at Egyptian port
Qutaiba Ahmed Badawi, Chairman of Syria’s General Authority for Land and Sea Ports, stated: “Partnering with DP World will allow us to modernise and strengthen the efficiency of our trade infrastructure as we continue to rebuild key trade lanes, support the national economy and provide more opportunities for the Syrian people.
“The agreement reflects our shared vision to transform Tartus into a strategic gateway linking Syria with regional and international markets and it will pave the way for sustainable growth for years to come.”
Tartus, located on Syria’s Mediterranean coast, is the country’s second-largest port and a critical access point to regional and international shipping routes, including those through the Bosporus and Suez Canal.
The redevelopment will expand the port’s capacity to handle general cargo, containers, breakbulk, and RoRo traffic.
DP World also plans to explore further logistics projects in Syria, such as free zones, inland logistics hubs, and transit corridors, in coordination with local partners.
Recently, DP World‘s terminal at the Port of Callao reported record volumes, including a 19 per cent increase in container throughput and a sharp rise in agricultural exports.
Port Technology International
port-and-ship
14 July 20252 min readDp World Signs $800M Deal To Develop Tartus Port
Port Technology International
14 July 2025
port-and-ship
Its Announces $365M Terminal Expansion At Port Of Long BeachFeature image: © ITS
The project, set to begin in July 2025 and finish by December 2028, will be delivered by the Dutra / Griffith Company Joint Venture, with a strong focus on using American materials and local labour.
Once completed, the expanded ITS terminal will increase cargo-handling capacity by up to 50 per cent, positioning ITS for long-term growth at one of the world’s busiest ports.
A key component of the project is a 560-foot extension of the existing quay, achieved by filling in a 19-acre “horseshoe” gap at the terminal. This upgrade will enable ITS to berth up to two 18,000 TEU container vessels simultaneously, significantly increasing overall terminal throughput.
READ: Port of Long Beach eyes June rebound after May decline
Kim Holtermand, Chief Executive Officer of ITS Long Beach, commented: “This project strengthens America’s supply chain by investing in infrastructure the right way, using local labour and US-made materials. We’re not just preparing for the future, we’re building it here, at home.”
Mario Cordero, CEO of the Port of Long Beach, added: “By ‘building more America now’, ITS is also building more land for the Port of Long Beach while expanding capacity and driving efficiency on its terminal.”
READ: Port of Long Beach named busiest US port in Q1 2025
The project is expected to create over three years of consistent employment for local workers, union trades, and small businesses.
Materials will be sourced domestically, including rock from Catalina Island, dredged materials from Newport and the Port of Long Beach Harbour, and American-made concrete pilings and structural materials installed by local subcontractors.
The South Slip Fill Project follows earlier upgrades at the ITS Long Beach terminal, such as the introduction of the port’s first on-dock rail system and new electric ship-to-shore cranes.
The Port of Long Beach is ramping up green investment. In March this year, the port announced plans to allocate up to 70 per cent of its annual budget for zero-emission truck incentives, refocusing on fleet turnover as charging and fuelling infrastructure for zero-emission vehicles continues to expand.
Port Technology International
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14 July 20252 min readIts Announces $365M Terminal Expansion At Port Of Long Beach
Port Technology International
14 July 2025
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Dp World To Invest $800 Million To Rebuild Syria’S Tartus PortDP World, a Dubai-based logistics company, has signed a 30-year concession agreement with Syria’s General Authority for Land and Sea Ports to develop and operate the Port of Tartus.
As part of this long-term deal, the company will invest USD 800 million over the full period to upgrade the port’s infrastructure and help turn it into a regional trade hub.
The agreement was signed in Damascus in the presence of the President of the Syrian Arab Republic, Ahmed Al-Sharaa. It was signed by Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman and Group CEO of DP World, and Qutaiba Ahmed Badawi, Chairman of the General Authority for Land and Sea Ports.
The Port of Tartus is located on Syria’s Mediterranean coast and is the second-largest port in the country. The redevelopment comes after more than ten years of conflict and is expected to support Syria’s economic recovery and improve its role in international trade.
DP World will fully own the project during the concession under a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model. The plan involves developing new infrastructure, upgrading cargo-handling equipment with advanced technology, and implementing digital systems to enhance efficiency at the port’s container and general cargo terminals.
The company sees strong potential in Tartus to become an important trade gateway that connects Southern Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa.
With this agreement, Syria aims to modernise the Port of Tartus, improve the efficiency of its trade operations, rebuild its key trade routes, support the national economy, and create more opportunities for Syrian people.
Once redeveloped, the port will be able to handle general cargo, breakbulk, containers, and roll-on/roll-off traffic. Its strategic location will boost regional connectivity and expand Syria’s trade capacity. The port’s position also complements existing routes through the Bosporus and the Suez Canal.
DP World also plans to explore other opportunities in Syria. These include setting up free zones, inland logistics hubs, and transit corridors in partnership with local stakeholders. These efforts aim to support economic diversification and improve trade in the region.
Reference: DP World
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Disclaimer : The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
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Marine Insight
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14 July 20253 min readDp World To Invest $800 Million To Rebuild Syria’S Tartus Port
Marine Insight
14 July 2025
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Its Announces $365 Million Expansion Project At Port Of...July 14, 2025
International Transportation Service (ITS) has announced the launch of the South Slip Fill Project, a $365 million terminal expansion that will support some of the world’s largest container ships and deliver long-term benefits to the local economy.
When completed in 2028, the larger ITS terminal at the Port of Long Beach will increase cargo-handling capacity up to 50 percent and position ITS for long-term growth at one of the world’s busiest ports.
A key part of the project is a 560-foot extension of the existing quay (wharf). This upgrade, which begins with filling in a 19-acre “horseshoe” gap at the terminal, will allow ITS to simultaneously berth up to two 18,000 TEU container vessels, a step forward in handling the next generation of ultra-large ships and increasing overall terminal throughput.
Scheduled to begin in July 2025, the project will be delivered by the Dutra / Griffith Company Joint Venture, with a focus on domestic sourcing and regional job creation. The South Slip Fill Project will create more than three years of consistent employment for local workers, union trades, and small businesses.
The wharf expansion project is the latest in a series of upgrades at the ITS Long Beach terminal. Prior improvements includes the first on-dock rail system at the Port of Long Beach and the addition of five new electric ship-to-shore cranes capable of serving the largest container ships.
Project Overview
Maritime Logistics Professional
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14 July 20252 min readIts Announces $365 Million Expansion Project At Port Of...
Maritime Logistics Professional
14 July 2025
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Syria Signs $800 Million Agreement With Dp World To Bolster Ports InfrastructureA drone view shows port of the coastal city of Latakia, Syria March 11, 2025. REUTERS/Karam al-Masri
July 13 (Reuters) – Syria’s General Authority for Land and Sea Ports on Sunday signed a $800 million agreement with UAE’s DP World to bolster Syrian ports infrastructure and logistical services, Syrian state news agency SANA reported.
The agreement follows on from a memorandum of understanding signed between the two sides in May.
The deal with DP World, a subsidiary of United Arab Emirates investment company Dubai World, focuses on developing a multi-purpose terminal at Tartous on Syria’s Mediterranean coast and cooperation in setting up industrial and free trade zones.
The signing ceremony was attended by Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa.
Last month, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order terminating a U.S. sanctions program on Syria, paving the way for an end to the country’s isolation from the international financial system and for the rebuilding of its economy shattered by the civil war.
The removal of U.S. sanctions will also clear the way for greater engagement by humanitarian organizations working in Syria, easing foreign investment and trade as the country rebuilds.
(Reporting by Elwely Elwelly; Writing by Menna Alaa El-Din; Editing by Louise Heavens and Jane Merriman)
(c) Copyright Thomson Reuters 2025.
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13 July 20252 min readSyria Signs $800 Million Agreement With Dp World To Bolster Ports Infrastructure
gCaptain
13 July 2025
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Syria Signs $800 Million Agreement With Dp WorldSyria's General Authority for Land and Sea Ports on Sunday signed a $800 million agreement with UAE's DP World to bolster Syrian ports infrastructure and logistical services, Syrian state news agency SANA reported.
The agreement follows on from a memorandum of understanding signed between the two sides in May.
The deal with DP World, a subsidiary of United Arab Emirates investment company Dubai World, focuses on developing a multi-purpose terminal at Tartous on Syria's Mediterranean.
Following over a decade of conflict and long-standing underinvestment in trade infrastructure, the redevelopment of Tartus marks an important step in Syria’s economic reintegration. Structured as a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model and fully owned by DP World, the project will include new infrastructure, advanced cargo-handling equipment, and digital systems to improve efficiency across the port’s container and general cargo terminals.
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman and Group CEO of DP World, said: “This agreement reflects our long-term commitment to enabling global trade and creating resilient supply chains. We see strong potential in Tartus to serve as a vital trade gateway and look forward to strengthening regional connectivity and economic opportunity through this investment. We believe in the power of trade to help drive long-term stability and prosperity for Syria and the region.”
Located on Syria’s Mediterranean coast, Tartus is the country’s second-largest port and a key maritime gateway to trade routes across Europe, the Levant and North Africa. Its strategic position enhances regional connectivity, complementing existing routes through the Bosporus and Suez. The redevelopment will enable Tartus to handle general cargo, containers, breakbulk, and roll-on/roll-off traffic, expanding Syria’s trade potential as the country continues to rebuild.
DP World will also explore opportunities to develop free zones, inland logistics hubs, and transit corridors in partnership with local stakeholders, supporting broader economic diversification and trade facilitation efforts.
The signing ceremony was attended by Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa.
Last month, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order terminating a U.S. sanctions program on Syria, paving the way for an end to the country's isolation from the international financial system and for the rebuilding of its economy shattered by the civil war.
The removal of U.S. sanctions will also clear the way for greater engagement by humanitarian organisations working in Syria, easing foreign investment and trade as the country rebuilds.
(Reuters and staff)
Marine Link
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13 July 20252 min readSyria Signs $800 Million Agreement With Dp World
Marine Link
13 July 2025
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Vancouver Port Authority Begins Bidding Process For $3 Billion Container Terminal To Boost Trade CapacityPhoto courtesy Vancouver Fraser Port Authority
The Vancouver Fraser Port Authority has initiated the procurement process for the Roberts Bank Terminal 2 Project, marking a significant milestone for Canada’s trade infrastructure development. The authority is seeking qualified teams to build the landmass and wharf component of this nationally significant marine container terminal.
The future terminal will unlock over $100 billion in new trade capacity and contribute $3 billion in GDP annually to Canada’s economy. Construction is planned to begin in 2028, with operations expected to commence by the mid-2030s.
“We’re excited to issue the request for qualifications today and move this vital project forward. To meet Canada’s needs in today’s quickly evolving trade landscape, we have accelerated our efforts to deliver Roberts Bank Terminal 2—a project that will strengthen Canada’s economic security and deliver trade resilience,” said Victor Pang, CFO at the port authority.
The selected procurement model is a progressive design-build with target price approach. An independent fairness monitor will oversee the process. The contract includes delivery of a 100-hectare marine landmass, 35-hectare widened causeway, 1,300-metre wharf structure, berth pocket, and expanded tug basin.
Environmental considerations are central to the project. The contract includes construction of a marine terminal fish passage to support juvenile salmon migration and civil works for habitat enhancement, including the South Arm Jetty Tidal Marsh Project—a priority for First Nations.
Interested construction teams must provide interim submissions by September 18, 2025, and qualification details by September 25, 2025. The port authority will shortlist three teams this fall for the proposal stage.
The project has gained consent from 27 First Nations, with whom the port authority has signed mutual benefits agreements. Consultation will continue regarding economic development opportunities for Indigenous communities.
Roberts Bank Terminal 2 is projected to generate more than 18,000 construction jobs and 17,000 long-term jobs during operation. It will increase container trade capacity by more than 30% on Canada’s west coast and add 320 acres of usable waterfront industrial land.
Construction companies interested in the project can attend an information session in Vancouver on July 22, 2025.
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11 July 20252 min readVancouver Port Authority Begins Bidding Process For $3 Billion Container Terminal To Boost Trade Capacity
gCaptain
11 July 2025
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Global Trade Grew $300 Billion In The First Half Of 2025, Led By Us Imports And Eu Exportsin International Shipping News
10/07/2025
But persistent policy uncertainty, geopolitical tensions and signs of slowing global growth pose risks for trade in the second half of the year.
Global trade expanded by an estimated $300 billion in the first half of 2025, despite a slower pace of growth, according to the latest Global Trade Update released on 8 July by UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD).
Global trade rose by about 1.5% in the first quarter, with growth expected to accelerate to 2% in the second quarter. Trade in services remained the main engine of annual growth, rising 9% over the last four quarters.
Price increases contributed to the overall rise in trade value. Prices for traded goods edged up in the first quarter and likely continued to rise in the second, while trade volumes grew by just 1%.
Developed economies regain lead in trade growth
Developed economies outpaced developing countries in the first quarter of 2025, reversing recent trends that had favoured the Global South. The shift was driven by a 14% surge in United States imports and a 6% jump in European Union exports.
In contrast, developing countries saw a 2% drop in imports. South-South trade stagnated overall, though Africa bucked the trend with exports up 5% and intraregional trade growing 16% year on year.
Global trade imbalances widen
Trade imbalances deepened during the last four quarters, with the US posting a larger deficit and China and the European Union recording growing surpluses.
Bilateral gaps also widened between the US and key partners, including China ($360 billion annual deficit), the EU ($276 billion) and Viet Nam ($116 billion).
Outlook uncertain as trade faces policy risks and geopolitical headwinds
The report warns that global trade faces mounting headwinds in the second half of 2025, amid persistent policy uncertainty, geopolitical tensions and signs of slowing global growth.
New US tariffs – including a 10% baseline rate and additional duties on steel and aluminum – have raised the risk of trade fragmentation. And while retaliatory measures have so far been limited, a further wave of unilateral actions could trigger escalation, spilling over to third-party countries and destabilizing supply chains.
Domestic subsidies and inward-looking industrial policies are also expected to intensify, particularly in strategic and high-tech sectors. These measures risk disrupting deeply integrated production networks, with uncertainty in one segment spilling over to others.
Still, signs of resilience remain. Freight indices have rebounded from early-2025 lows, regional integration is strengthening, and services trade may continue its robust growth.
UNCTAD says that continued resilience in the second half of 2025 will depend on “policy clarity, geoeconomic developments and supply chain adaptability.”
Source: UNCTAD
Hellenic Shipping News
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10 July 20253 min readGlobal Trade Grew $300 Billion In The First Half Of 2025, Led By Us Imports And Eu Exports
Hellenic Shipping News
10 July 2025
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Cma Cgm Hits 4M Teu MilestoneAlphaliner is reporting French container shipping giant CMA CGM has officially crossed the 4m teu threshold in operated capacity this week. The achievement cements CMA CGM’s position as the world’s third-largest container carrier, trailing only MSC (6.7m teu) and Maersk (4.6m teu).
This latest milestone represents a quadrupling of CMA CGM’s size over the past 16 years (see chart below). The group, founded in 1978 and still privately owned by the Saadé family, reached its first 1m teu in 2009, followed by 2m teu in 2016 and 3m teu in 2021.
CMA CGM’s storied growth path includes major acquisitions that reshaped its global footprint. Landmark deals include the purchase of French state-owned CGM in 1996, Australian carrier ANL in 1998, Delmas in 2005, and the high-profile acquisition of American President Line (APL) in 2016.
Additionally, the group has absorbed several regional players, including MacAndrews, Cheng Lie Navigation, OPDR, Mercosul Line, and Containerships Oy.
Today, the Marseille-based group operates a fleet of 683 container vessels, both owned and chartered. CMA CGM also boasts the industry’s second-largest orderbook, with 95 vessels on order totalling 1.5m teu.
With its substantial newbuild program, CMA CGM is positioning itself to challenge Maersk’s number two position on the Alphaliner rankings. While Maersk currently maintains 4.6m teu in operated capacity, the Danish giant has signalled it does not intend to grow beyond this level, instead focusing on replacing older ships with a 682,000 teu orderbook.
Over the past five years, the cash-rich Saadé family has been steering CMA CGM beyond its core shipping business, expanding into logistics, air freight, and media.
Splash247
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09 July 20252 min readCma Cgm Hits 4M Teu Milestone
Splash247
09 July 2025
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