Shipping Market Outlook: Q1 2026

Fragmented growth, shifting routes, and uneven fleet expansion are reshaping early 2026 market conditions.

Global shipping markets enter 2026 amid uneven economic growth, evolving trade policy, and persistent geopolitical uncertainty. Sanctions enforcement, rerouting around the Red Sea, and first shipments from the Simandou iron ore mine are already altering trade flows, while fleet growth is diverging sharply by sector.

Across Tankers, Bulkers, Containers, and LPG, market outcomes are increasingly driven by distance and routing. Extended voyage lengths continue to support utilization in some segments, even as accelerating vessel deliveries begin to pressure balance in others.

Derived from Veson’s quarterly market forecasts, this executive summary highlights the key forces shaping utilization, earnings, and asset values as markets adjust to a more complex operating environment in early 2026.

The executive summary explores:

Shipping market conditions: How sanctions, rerouting, and route normalization are extending voyage lengths and reshaping earnings across major Tanker, Bulker, Container, and LPG segments

Asset value and fleet dynamics: The impact of diverging fleet growth, vessel deliveries, and removals on newbuilding and secondhand values — and where supply-side pressure is emerging

Macro, trade, and policy drivers: How uneven regional growth, evolving trade policy, and shifts in commodity flows are influencing seaborne demand and market sensitivity into 2026

Looking for more tailored insights? Book a consultation with Veson’s maritime analysts to discuss how these Q1 dynamics could impact your earnings outlook, asset values, and risk positioning in 2026.