Global shipping giant Maersk has raised its full-year 2026 financial outlook after reporting strong second-quarter results driven by growing cargo demand, higher ocean freight rates and improved performance across its business segments.
The Danish shipping and logistics company reported revenue of $15.8 billion for the second quarter, representing a 20% increase from $13.1 billion during the same period last year. Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation, known as EBITDA, rose to $3 billion, while operating profit increased to $1.6 billion.
The strong performance has encouraged Maersk to raise its full-year guidance for the second time in 2026. The company now expects underlying EBITDA of between $10.5 billion and $12.5 billion, compared with its previous forecast of $8 billion to $10 billion. Its underlying operating profit forecast has also increased to between $4.5 billion and $6.5 billion.
Higher Freight Rates Boost Ocean Business
Maersk’s Ocean division was a major contributor to the company’s strong quarterly performance. Revenue in the segment increased by about 23% year-on-year, supported by a rise in freight rates and continued demand for container shipping.
Loaded volumes also increased, with strong exports from Asia, particularly China, helping to support growth. At the same time, port congestion and pressure on land-based logistics infrastructure created tighter shipping conditions in several regions .
Maersk said demand from the Far East remained particularly strong. The company also benefited from growing demand in Africa, North America and Latin America.
Global Shipping Faces Continued Volatility
Despite the positive results, the global shipping industry continues to face major challenges. Ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have disrupted some shipping routes, while congestion at ports and other infrastructure bottlenecks has added pressure to global supply chains.
According to Maersk, disruption to traffic around the Middle East has forced changes to cargo flows and shipping networks. However, the company has been able to move capacity to other trade routes where demand remains strong.
Maersk Chief Executive Officer Vincent Clerc described the second quarter as further evidence of a new period of increased volatility in global trade. The company expects the global container market to continue growing by around 4% in 2026.
The latest results show that strong demand and higher freight rates are helping Maersk overcome some of the challenges facing the maritime industry. However, the company and the wider shipping sector will continue to watch global trade patterns, port congestion and geopolitical developments closely in the months ahead.
