Астахов Павел

China currently has the largest trade fleet in the world, both in terms of the number of ships and fleet value. Specifically, China's fleet, including state-owned COSCO, is the largest by gross tonnage, and they also dominate in the bulker and container sectors

The country with the largest merchant fleet is China, both in terms of the number of vessels and fleet value. In terms of gross tonnage, Panama has the largest merchant fleet.


In 2025, China is projected to have the largest merchant fleet by total asset value, surpassing Japan. While Indonesia holds the top spot in terms of the number of vessels, according to Global Firepower, China's fleet is more valuable due to its dominance in bulkers and container ships, valued at $255 billion. Other notable nations in terms of fleet value include Japan, Greece, the United States, and Singapore.
Here's a more detailed look:

China: Leads in total fleet value, particularly in bulker and container fleets.

Indonesia: Has the largest number of vessels in its merchant fleet, according to Global Firepower.

Japan: Ranks second in fleet value, known for its strength in bulk carriers.

Greece: A major player in the shipping industry, particularly in tankers and bulk carriers.

United States: Strong in the cruise ship segment and overall fleet value.

Singapore: Maintains a significant position in the global shipping landscape.


https://blog.vesselsvalue.com/top-10-shipowning-nations-by-total-asset-value-for-2025/
https://web.archive.org/web/20250711190240/https://www.globalfirepower.com/merchant-marine-strength-by-country.php