Maersk: Global Container Volumes Could Decline in 2025!

In its Q1 2025 earnings release, Maersk posted strong year-on-year results — revenue rose to $13.3 billion (+7.8%), and EBIT surged to $1.25 billion. Yet behind the robust numbers lies a note of caution: the company has lowered its global container market volume growth forecast to -1% to +4% for the full year, citing macroeconomic and geopolitical uncertainty.

Segment Performance Highlights:
Ocean: EBIT of $743 million (vs. -$161 million in Q1 2024), driven by higher freight rates and stable costs. Though sequential EBIT declined from Q4 2024, the year-on-year rebound is notable.
Logistics & Services: EBIT rose to $142 million with a 4.1% margin, supported by strong growth in Customs, Warehousing & Fulfilment, and Middle Mile services.
Terminals: EBIT climbed to $394 million (vs. $300 million), with a return on invested capital (ROIC) of 14.5% and improved revenue per move.

CEO Vincent Clerc commented: “With trade tensions flaring up and uncertainty on the rise, global supply chains are once again in the spotlight.” He added that the group is doubling down on automation and cost control to remain resilient.

Meanwhile, global peers are also navigating turbulence:
COSCO Shipping: Q1 net profit of $1.64 billion (+81% YoY) amid strong transpacific volumes.
Hapag-Lloyd: EBIT of $500 million; volumes and rates up, but margins under pressure.
ONE: Lowest quarterly net profit in 5 quarters ($309 million), despite higher revenue.

While Maersk maintains its full-year EBITDA guidance ($6–9B), the industry clearly faces diverging paths in an increasingly volatile trade environment.

by Xinde Mairne News Chen Yang

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