Ningbo-Zhoushan Port. [Photo/WeChat account: nbfb0574]

Ningbo-Zhoushan Port has climbed to sixth place in the 2026 Xinhua-Baltic International Shipping Center Development Index, achieving its highest ranking to date and overtaking Rotterdam for the first time.

The annual index, released on July 10, evaluates 43 major shipping hubs worldwide across three categories: port conditions, shipping services, and the broader business environment. Singapore has retained the top position, followed by Shanghai, London, Hong Kong, and Dubai.

This latest ranking reflects the growing role of Ningbo-Zhoushan not only as one of the world's busiest ports, but also as an increasingly important center for shipping-related services, operating more than 300 routes, including 260 international container services connecting over 700 ports in more than 200 countries and regions.

In 2025, the port handled 1.43 billion metric tons of cargo, maintaining its position as the world's busiest port by cargo throughput for the 17th consecutive year. Container throughput reached 43.87 million TEUs, ranking third globally.

Beyond cargo volumes, the index highlighted progress in shipping finance, maritime legal services, brokerage, and other high-value maritime industries. Recent developments include the launch of the Ningbo Zhoushan Containerized Sailed Freight Index (NZCI) and the expansion of maritime dispute resolution and international legal service platforms in the city.

This rise also reflects Ningbo's long-term strategy of integrating port development with industrial growth and urban expansion, with authorities saying the next step is to strengthen the city's position as a global maritime services hub while advancing the development of a world-class modern port and shipping center.