Ningbo-Zhoushan Port shows major trade rebound

Despite recent volatility in global trade policy, especially the swift changes in U.S.-China tariff regulations since April, Ningbo-Zhoushan Port — the world's third-largest in terms of container throughput volume in 2024 — has demonstrated remarkable resilience.

By early June, container throughput volume to the United States had returned to pre-fluctuation levels, said port officials.

Located on China's eastern seaboard, Ningbo-Zhoushan Port serves as a vital artery in global logistics. With over 300 container shipping routes connecting to more than 600 ports, across 200 countries and regions, the port handles nearly 300 vessel movements daily. It has become a critical hub in supporting the dual circulation of domestic and international trade.

In the face of external pressure, the port managed to expand its container throughput volume. From January to April, the port handled 13.568 million twenty-foot equivalent units, marking a 9.9 percent year-on-year increase, said Teng Yahui, deputy general manager of Ningbo Zhoushan Port Co Ltd.

Notably, full-container exports rose more than 10 percent, while volumes to emerging markets in Southeast Asia, South America and Africa surged over 20 percent, laying a robust foundation for sustained growth.

From January to May, total container throughput volume exceeded 17 million TEUs — a year-on-year increase of more than 9 percent. Teng confirmed that U.S.-bound container volumes had normalized by early June, reflecting a rebound in trans-Pacific trade following the May 12 joint announcement issued after China-U.S. trade talks in Geneva.

To meet growing market demand and improve global connectivity, Ningbo-Zhoushan Port has launched a series of new shipping routes in recent months. These routes not only accommodate increased outbound cargo, but also provide exporters with faster, more diversified transport options, further consolidating the port's global hub status.

"Ningbo-Zhoushan Port has capitalized on the reorganization of global shipping alliances, strengthening cooperation with shipping lines and optimizing our route network," said Zhu Miao, general manager of Zhejiang Provincial Seaport Investment &Operation Group.

Zhu said: "We now operate 307 routes, including 255 international ones and 23 express shipping lines. Our port connectivity index has surpassed Singapore's, ranking second globally."

During periods of reduced U.S.-bound shipments, the port took proactive measures to stabilize services. "We worked closely with carriers to secure capacity and stabilize schedules, ensuring minimal disruptions. At the same time, we collaborated to explore new cargo sources and routes, reinforcing our role as a pivotal gateway," Teng said.

Ningbo-Zhoushan Port continues to enhance service quality by deploying tailored solutions. Its dedicated "logistics concierge" team designs optimized transportation plans for clients, with a strong focus on high-growth regions such as South America, the Middle East and Europe. In parallel, the port has accelerated the implementation of facilitation measures to improve operational efficiency. These include reducing vessel waiting times and streamlining Customs clearance — efforts that have significantly enhanced port productivity and competitiveness.