Singapore retains top spot as world’s leading shipping centre

By Admin

14 Jul, 2025

Singapore has reaffirmed its maritime supremacy by clinching the top position in the 2025 Xinhua-Baltic International Shipping Centre Development Index (ISCDI) with an impressive score of 99.5 out of 100. This announcement, made on July 11, marks a historic milestone the 12th consecutive year that Singapore has led the global rankings since the index’s inception.

Strategic Strength and Maritime Excellence
The ISCDI report highlights that Singapore’s unparalleled success in the shipping industry stems from a combination of its strategic geographical location, strong international connectivity, and a robust ecosystem of professional maritime services. These strengths have made Singapore a preferred hub for global shipping giants and maritime professionals alike.

Leadership and Collaboration
Ang Wee Keong, Chief Executive of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts that have propelled the nation to the top:

“We thank our industry partners, the research and enterprise community and our unions, who have been instrumental in Singapore’s journey to become a leading international maritime centre and global hub port.”

Global Rankings at a Glance
Following Singapore, the top five global maritime centres are:

• London – 81.02
  
  

• Shanghai – 81.01
  
  

• Hong Kong – 80.77
  
  

• Dubai – 75.97
  
  

These cities were ranked among 43 evaluated maritime locations based on multiple performance indicators.

Comprehensive Evaluation Criteria
The ISCDI index is a joint initiative by Xinhua News Agency and the Baltic Exchange, a renowned provider of maritime market data. The ranking framework evaluates locations based on several criteria, with port metrics accounting for 20% of the score. These metrics include:

• Cargo throughput
  
  

• Crane count
  
  

• Container berth length
  
  

• Port draught
  
  

Conclusion
Singapore’s enduring leadership in the maritime industry is no accident it is the result of visionary planning, international collaboration, and a commitment to continuous innovation. As global trade continues to evolve, Singapore’s role as the world’s top shipping centre remains both vital and inspiring for the maritime community worldwide.