The Port of Singapore maintained strong container handling momentum in May 2026, processing 3.94 million TEUs, a 3% increase compared to the same month last year, according to the latest statistics released by the Maritime and Port Authority (MPA).
The port also recorded higher vessel traffic during the month. Vessel arrivals rose 3.4% year-on-year to 11,729, while total vessel tonnage increased 1.1% to 278.62 million gross tons, reflecting sustained shipping activity at the world’s leading transshipment hub.
Despite the growth in container traffic, overall cargo throughput declined. Total cargo handled during May stood at 50.34 million tonnes, down 4.8% from May 2025.
Bunker sales also registered a decline, falling 6.8% year-on-year to 4.55 million tonnes. Conventional marine fuels continued to dominate the market, accounting for 4.417 million tonnes, or more than 97% of total bunker sales.
At the same time, the use of alternative marine fuels continued to expand. Biofuel sales reached 61,000 tonnes, while LNG bunker sales totalled 70,000 tonnes, taking combined alternative fuel volumes to 131,000 tonnes, representing nearly 3% of total bunker sales.
The latest figures highlight the resilience of Singapore’s container business despite softer overall cargo volumes and lower bunker demand. Rising container throughput and vessel calls underscore the port’s continued importance as a global shipping hub, while the gradual growth in biofuel and LNG bunkering reflects the industry’s ongoing transition toward cleaner marine fuels.
