Latin America’s containerized trade volumes increased by 5% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, according to provisional data from Container Trades Statistics.
Import volumes led the growth, rising by 8%, while exports grew by 4%. The smaller intra-Latin America trade segment, however, experienced a slight decline.
Export volumes from the region rose by 73,900 TEU, reaching a total of 2.08 million TEU. While most trade routes saw increases, the key Far East–Latin America corridor contracted by 10%, falling to 519,300 TEU.
The Australasia trade also posted weaker results. These declines were offset by significant export growth to Europe, North America, and the Middle East/Indian Subcontinent.
On the import side, Latin America saw a gain of 184,400 TEU, with total volumes reaching 2.56 million TEU.
Imports from the Far East, Middle East/Indian Subcontinent, and sub-Saharan Africa recorded double-digit growth. In contrast, imports from North America declined sharply during the same period.
Overall, the region’s trade dynamics in early 2025 highlight a strong recovery in import demand and shifting patterns in export destinations.
