THE MARITIME industry’s growth will be largely supported by intra-Asia and Asia-Europe trade, Dachser Intelligent Logistics said.
In a report, it said sea freight volume in intra-Asia trade and Asia-Europe will continue to grow even though global demand overall could slow down.
“Fleet growth remains significant, supply and demand are relatively balanced, supported by blank sailings and vessel scrapping. Freight rates are expected to stabilize into early 2026, although uncertainty remains due to high operating costs and ongoing geopolitical developments,” it said.
The report was circulating at a maritime conference called to discuss the shipping outlook for the Philippines.
“The advantage that we have in the Philippines is that we have such a strong footing in the maritime industry, especially in manpower,” UTS Philippines, Inc. Chief Technology Officer Louiery Reyes Sincioco told BusinessWorld on the sidelines of the conference on Thursday.
The maritime sector stands to benefit from adopting machine learning technologies, such as AI, to enhance vessel optimization and route planning, while also improving safety and other operational processes, he said, adding that cybersecurity issues have not had a major impact as yet, though preparations are needed.
“The Philippine maritime sector has not encountered major cyberattacks yet. We should modernize our systems, because we move very slowly in the industry. I know that is a challenge because that is very expensive,” he said.
He said cyberattacks could result in navigation failures, cargo disruptions, and other safety threats.
In 2026, the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) said it is projecting stronger growth in cargo and passenger traffic, driven by investments in port efficiency.
This year, the PPA said it is expecting cargo volume to rise 4.03% to 320.94 million metric tons (MMT), driven mainly by the foreign cargo segment.
The PPA said foreign cargo volume is estimated to rise 4.28% to 202.73 MMT in 2025. Domestic cargo volume could rise 3.61% to 118.22 MMT, with container throughput estimated to grow 3.94% to 8.88 million twenty-foot equivalent units.
Norwegian Ambassador to the Philippines Christian Lyster said the industry faces challenges from stricter climate and sustainability regulations, though the ongoing digital transformation presents opportunities.
“Maritime cybersecurity has become (a shared concern), while digitalization through enhanced vessel connectivity, AI, and other advanced technologies offer significant opportunities for efficiency and innovation,” he said. — Ashley Erika O. Jose
