The shipping industry is witnessing a seismic shift, thanks to Neo-Panamax vessels. In 2023, 62 of these behemoths, with capacities ranging from 13,000 to 16,550 TEU, are set to join the global fleet, accounting for a significant 39% of this year’s new TEU slots, according to Alphaliner.
They have already made a substantial impact on Asia-North America routes, representing 30.1% of the new NPX capacity for 2023, improving connectivity between these continents. These ships are also diversifying into Asia-Europe routes, with 21.6% dedicated to the Mediterranean and North Europe.
A notable development is their increasing role in North-South trade routes, accounting for 23.9% of the new NPX capacity in 2023. Fifteen more vessels are yet to enter these routes, indicating further expansion.
This transformation is part of a broader trend in the industry, with numerous vessels under construction (49% of the total order book) and a cascading effect expected from 58 incoming megamax vessels. As a result, larger vessels are increasingly finding their way into North-South routes.
One trade route that has particularly embraced Neo-Panamax ships is the route between the Far East and the West Coast of South America, where their deployment has become increasingly popular. Despite a small number of 3,000 to 4,700 TEU Panamax vessels still in operation, the average vessel size on this route has now reached an impressive 10,216 TEU. Among the 119 container ships currently navigating between Asia and the West Coast of South America, 40 of them fall within the size range of 13,000 to 16,550 TEU. Interestingly, two Neo-Postpanamax ships, the 16,020 TEU CMA CGM ALEXANDER VON HUMBOLDT and the 15,282 TEU MAERSK HERRERA, are among these impressive vessels contributing to the transformation of global trade routes.
In conclusion, Neo-Panamax vessels are not just vessels; they are harbingers of change, reshaping the way goods move across the globe. As they continue to redefine the maritime landscape, these mighty ships promise greater connectivity and new trade opportunities, marking a significant industry shift with profound implications for global commerce.
Source: Alphaliner
