From the carriers posting financial results for the first half of calendar 2026, there were clearly mixed fortunes. Revenue developments ranged from a contraction of 13% for ZIM to a gain of 11% for SITC. Despite the differences, only two carriers posted a net loss, these being Hapag-Lloyd and ZIM for a combined return of USD -191 million. In contrast, the other carriers summarized below
posted a combined net result of USD 7.54 billion, which does not suggest a sector in crisis by any means, despite the challenges it faces. The biggest winner was Cosco Shipping Holdings with a consolidated group profit approaching USD 2.0 billion. CMA CGM and Maersk were the other billionaire winners.
Nine carriers published sufficient information to be able to provide financial figures on a TEU basis. Despite making a net loss, ZIM had the highest average revenue per TEU, just like the previous two years, albeit this time its rate was considerably lower at USD 1,777. The principally regional carriers, RCL, SITC and T.S. Lines all managed to see their averages grow significantly. However, the average across all nine was USD 1,199 which was USD 61 weaker than at the halfway point of 2025.
For operating profit, ZIM was again top (and again for the third time in a row) at USD 450 per TEU (again, weaker). RCL was the only carrier below the USD 100 level. The overall average was USD 242 (down USD 69/TEU, year-on-year).
Source: DynaLiners 36/26 – 04 September 2026