Regional Container Lines Public Company Limited (RCL) has reported a net profit of THB 8,167 million for 2025, marking a 10.9% decrease compared to THB 9,171 million in 2024, primarily due to the appreciation of the Thai Baht.
The stronger currency reduced earnings when converted into Thai Baht, as the average exchange rate declined from THB 35.5 per USD in 2024 to THB 32.9 per USD in 2025. However, in its functional currency, US dollars, and after adjusting for one-off items recorded in 2024, net profit reached USD 247.9 million, representing a slight increase of 0.2% year-on-year.
RCL recorded freight income of THB 36,924 million in 2025, up 5.2% from the previous year, supported by improved fleet efficiency and network expansion. Total container liftings increased by 8.8% to 215,547 TEUs, while operating costs rose by 6.0%.
Despite a significant decline in the Shanghai Containerized Freight Index (SCFI), the company maintained average freight rates above market levels, reflecting effective fleet deployment and capacity management.
In the fourth quarter of 2025, net profit stood at THB 1,803 million, down 21.6% from the previous quarter. The decline was mainly attributed to a 4.3% drop in average freight rates, although volumes increased by 3.7% and operating costs rose by 2.2%.
RCL noted that the container shipping sector continued to face pressure from global economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, trade policy changes and excess vessel capacity, all of which impacted freight rates and operational costs.
To support long-term growth, the company confirmed it has ordered two new 14,000 TEU vessels from a South Korean shipyard, scheduled for delivery in 2028. These will be the largest vessels in RCL’s fleet and are intended to improve efficiency, meet customer demand and comply with environmental standards.
The company also announced that its Board of Directors has proposed a total dividend of THB 2.50 per share for 2025. Having already paid interim dividends totaling THB 1.00 per share, the remaining THB 1.50 per share is subject to shareholder approval at the Annual General Meeting on 17 April 2026, with payment scheduled for 15 May 2026.
RCL highlighted that it continues to focus on operational resilience and strategic fleet investments to navigate ongoing market volatility and support sustainable growth.
