Ningbo Zhoushan Port processed more than 40 million TEU in 2025, joining the global elite and supporting China's record trade surplus of US$1.19 trillion, reported Greater Amsterdam's Breakbulk News.

Customs data showed national container throughput rose 9.5 per cent year-on-year to 320 million units in the first eleven months of 2025. Shanghai International Port Group handled over 50 million units in that period, surpassing its total for the previous year. Shandong Port Group reported cargo throughput of 1.9 billion tonnes, up from 1.32 billion tonnes six years earlier.

The Transport Ministry is directing ports toward specialised roles to manage rising demand for containerised cargo. Seven ports have been integrated under one provincial group, with sites focusing on crude oil or iron ore, while Qingdao Port serves as the main container hub.

Wang Jun, deputy director general of customs, said trading partnerships are more diversified and resilience has strengthened despite weak global momentum. Infrastructure planners are committing to long-term projects to keep capacity ahead of demand.

Zhu Xuyu, deputy director of the Water Transport Bureau, said the government plans to build port zones capable of handling 100m tonnes each, equipped with digital intelligence and green technologies. Qingdao Port has pledged 77 billion yuan to 15 projects, including two new terminals due by 2029.

Analysts note China's port expansion underpins hinterland development as the economy shifts toward domestic consumption. Provincial consolidation is ending competition between neighbouring cities, aiming to boost connectivity rankings. Future growth will focus on automation and carbon reduction to meet international standards.

The Central Committee reaffirmed that coastal clusters will be optimised to ensure each port defines its role based on regional needs.