Posted on June 4, 2025
As geopolitical tensions, environmental goals, and infrastructure investments continue to reshape the maritime sector, May 2025 delivered no shortage of headline-grabbing developments.
May 2025 was a dynamic month for ports and shipping, featuring key progress in decarbonisation, technological innovation, and trade development amid ongoing geopolitical and operational challenges.
Here are three key topics that captured significant attention in the ports and shipping industry in the month of May.
Tariff Tensions Loom, but US Imports Stay Resilient
In May, US tariffs continued to add uncertainty to global supply chains. Over half of US retailers surveyed by Allianz expected price increases as they adjusted to rising tariff-related costs.
While full figures for May are still pending, US container imports grew in April 2025 despite ongoing tariff threats, rising 1.2 per cent from March and 9.1 per cent year-on-year (YoY), according to Descartes. Imports topped 2.4 million TEUs for the second time this year.
The Port of Long Beach saw strong volumes ahead of the tariff hike, handling 867,493 TEUs—up 15.6 per cent from April 2024 and 5.7 per cent above its previous April record.
Similarly, the Port of Los Angeles handled 842,806 TEUs in April, marking a 9.4 per cent increase from last year.
Global Port Landscape
Port congestion at major northern European container terminals intensified in the month of May, with Bloomberg predicting there will be delays persisting into July due to ongoing operational challenges and global trade disruptions.
In other port news, CK Hutchison confirmed MSC as the main investor in a consortium looking to acquire 43 of its global port assets, in a deal reportedly worth $22.8 billion. The announcement was made by CK Hutchison Co-Managing Director Dominic Lai at the company’s annual general meeting on 22 May. According to Reuters, Lai confirmed MSC’s involvement when asked directly, stating the shipping giant had been the leading investor “from the beginning”.
Decarbonisation Drives Major Advances in Port Operations
A major highlight this month is the conclusion of the European SEANERGY project, which delivered two pivotal tools to accelerate port energy transitions: a comprehensive Port Energy Transition Master Plan and a Catalogue of Technologies for Port Decarbonisation.
These resources reportedly provide ports worldwide with structured guidance and access to over 90 sustainable technologies, ranging from ship power supply solutions to alternative fuels and cargo handling equipment.
Complementing this momentum, CMA CGM launched Vietnam’s first fully electric container barge, a landmark in green maritime transport, while the Port of Rotterdam Authority introduced a fully electric hydrofoil patrol vessel as part of its decarbonisation pilot program.
Additionally, AM Green and Rotterdam signed an MoU to further green port infrastructure, underscoring the growing global push towards eco-friendly port operations.
Digitalisation and Automation Transforming Port Operations
Digital transformation remains a leading trend. The IMO’s support for Guinea-Bissau’s maritime single window highlights efforts to digitalise shipping in emerging markets, boosting transparency and efficiency.
Notably, in May’s digital developments, the Georgia Ports Authority has launched its new GPA Trucker mobile app, designed to improve the experience for lorry drivers at the Port of Savannah terminals. The app provides digital tickets, real-time notifications, and navigation assistance, all designed to reduce paperwork, save time, and enhance the overall driver experience.
Meanwhile, Klaipeda Port is preparing to launch a private 5G standalone network, which will enable faster, more reliable communications and support a new generation of connected port operations.
Additionally, GOST and VIAM have partnered to develop an AI-driven security platform, underscoring the growing role of artificial intelligence in safeguarding port infrastructure.
Despite tariff and congestion concerns, the shipping industry continues to adapt, advancing toward a cleaner, more efficient, and connected future.
