Maersk posts strong 2025 results, forecasts moderate container market growth in 2026

A.P. Moller – Maersk A/S says it delivered strong financial and operational performance in 2025, supported by volume growth, cost controls and improved execution across its business segments.

The Danish shipping and logistics giant reported full-year revenue of US$54 billion, compared with US$55.5 billion the previous year. Earnings before interest and taxes totaled US$3.5 billion, down from US$6.5 billion in 2024 but still reaching the upper end of company guidance.

“We delivered a strong performance and high value for our customers in a year where supply chains and global trade continued to be reshaped by evolving geopolitics. Across our operations, volumes grew and asset utilisation was very high,” said CEO Vincent Clerc. “Our ocean business set a new benchmark for reliability, terminals delivered record results, and logistics and services continued to advance. The year highlighted the need to strengthen, and modernise global supply chains and critical infrastructure, further emphasising the relevance of our strategy. Our key to success remains to grow in close partnership with our customers, leveraging our unique asset footprint and a continuous drive for operational excellence and cost discipline.”

Maersk’s ocean shipping division saw volumes rise 4.9 per cent in 2025, in line with market growth, although profitability declined due to lower freight rates caused by excess shipping capacity. The company said its new East-West network achieved more than 90 per cent on-time arrival rates and delivered higher-than-expected cost savings.

The company’s terminals business recorded its strongest performance on record, with revenue rising 20 per cent due to increased volumes, higher rates and stronger storage revenue. The logistics and services division also reported improved profitability as it continued to focus on operational improvements.

For the fourth quarter, Maersk reported mixed results. Ocean shipping volumes increased eight per cent but recorded an earnings loss before interest and taxes of US$153 million due to continued freight rate pressure. Logistics and services revenue rose 1.9 per cent year over year, with earnings increasing to US$194 million. Terminals revenue grew 13 per cent, with earnings reaching US$321 million despite one-time charges.

Maersk said it will reduce corporate overhead costs by US$180 million annually, cutting about 1,000 positions, or roughly 15 per cent of its 6,000 corporate roles, as part of efforts to simplify its organizational structure.

The company is reorganizing its logistics and services business into three segments — landside, forwarding and solutions — to better align with industry product categories and customer needs.

Looking ahead, Maersk expects global container market volumes to grow between two and four per cent in 2026, with the company anticipating growth in line with the broader market. The outlook reflects continued overcapacity in shipping and the possibility of a gradual reopening of Red Sea shipping routes.