Hapag-Lloyd closed the first half of 2025 with solid results despite a challenging and volatile market. Group EBITDA reached US$1.9 billion, while EBIT stood at US$0.7 billion. Group profit was US$0.8 billion.
The company faced fluctuating demand and freight rates, driven in part by changing US trade policies. Congested ports and security tensions in the Red Sea also affected operations.
In the Liner Shipping segment, revenues rose to US$10.4 billion. Transport volumes increased 11% to 6.7 million TEU, led by growth in East-West trades. The average freight rate held steady at US$1,400/TEU. EBITDA fell slightly to US$1.8 billion, partly due to start-up costs for the new Gemini network and inflation-related pressures.
Hapag-Lloyd’s Terminal & Infrastructure segment also grew. EBITDA rose to US$79 million and EBIT to US$37 million. The company expanded its terminal portfolio by acquiring a majority stake in CNMP LH in Le Havre, France, in March 2025.
“In a volatile market, we increased transport volumes and ended the half-year on a solid note. The Gemini network launch has been successful and sets new standards for schedule reliability. We are also expanding Hanseatic Global Terminals,” said CEO Rolf Habben Jansen. “In H2 2025, we will focus on quality, growth, and performance, while helping customers navigate this uncertain market.”
Following the strong first-half performance, Hapag-Lloyd has refined its 2025 earnings forecast. Group EBITDA is now expected between US$2.8 and 3.8 billion, and Group EBIT between US$0.25 and 1.25 billion. However, geopolitical risks and volatile freight rates mean uncertainty remains.
