The combined EBIT of major global carriers fell to US$5.12 billion in 2025-Q3, down from US$17.06 billion a year earlier, marking a correction from disruption-driven highs, reported Copenhagen's Sea-Intelligence. Despite double-digit freight rate declines, profitability remains above pre-pandemic levels, suggesting the market has stabilised into a sustainable "new normal."

Operational data showed resilience, with transported volumes rising for six of seven reporting carriers. Analysts said new vessel deliveries and reworked service networks helped absorb longer Red Sea transit times without panic-pricing.

Cosco posted the highest EBIT per TEU at US$350, followed by ZIM at $280. These were the only carriers maintaining profitability above $200 per TEU.

Other major lines saw margins compress sharply. ONE recorded $85 per TEU, Maersk $83, and Hapag-Lloyd $65, all below the $100 mark. This contrasts with 2024-Q3, when the lowest EBIT per TEU among them was $335,