Incheon Port container volume 2025 declined by 5.9% during the first half of the year, reflecting shifting trade patterns and geopolitical challenges.
- Incheon Port’s Container Volume in 2025
- Quarterly Breakdown: Q1 and Q2 Comparison
- Why Did Container Volume Drop 5.9%?
- Key Trade Factors Behind the Decline
- IPA’s Strategic Response to the Downturn
- Recovery Measures Planned for H2 2025
- Final Thoughts: Preparing for 2026
Incheon Port’s Container Volume in 2025
In the first half of 2025, Incheon Port experienced a significant decline in container volume. According to the Incheon Port Authority (IPA), total TEU throughput dropped by 5.9% compared to the same period in 2024, falling from 1.29 million to 1.21 million TEU.
Quarterly Breakdown: Q1 and Q2 Comparison
While Q1 remained relatively stable, Q2 2025 saw a sharper decline due to worsening external conditions. Transshipment cargo and U.S.-bound shipments saw the largest drop.
Why Did Container Volume Drop 5.9%?
This drop was mainly due to:
- Reduced global demand
- Increased U.S. tariffs on imports
- Slower trade with China and Southeast Asia
- Supply chain adjustments post-COVID
- Shifting of shipping routes to competing ports
Key Trade Factors Behind the Decline
The impact of U.S. tariff policies in 2025 cannot be overstated. Exporters avoided Korean transshipment routes, choosing more direct or diversified options. Additionally, China’s economic slowdown and reduced factory output led to a decline in containerized exports.
IPA’s Strategic Response to the Downturn
The Incheon Port Authority announced several key initiatives:
- Attracting new shipping lines from India and the Middle East
- Launching digital logistics systems for cargo optimization
- Incentives for shipping carriers to return to Incheon
- Expanding cooperation with local logistics companies
Recovery Measures Planned for H2 2025
To rebound in the second half of 2025, IPA plans to:
- Upgrade container handling equipment
- Implement a Green Port initiative
- Host global port partnerships and industry summits
- Streamline customs and gate processing
Final Thoughts: Preparing for 2026
Despite the mid-year setback, Incheon Port aims to regain volume through infrastructure upgrades, policy reform, and stronger regional cooperation. Logistics stakeholders should watch for positive trends in late 2025 that may signal renewed momentum heading into 2026.