The third version of the global container port performance index (CPPI) shows that after the unprecedented disruption of container transport caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the global port operation has improved significantly. Ports around the world are continuing to clear their backlog of goods, but there is still room for further improvement in operational efficiency. Data shows that promoting the digitization of port processes and modernization of port infrastructure can increase productivity, improve customer service, and promote carbon emissions reduction.

The third version of CPPI was jointly prepared by the World Bank and S&P Global Market Intelligence. It is a data-based comparative index that measures port operational efficiency based on the time from the arrival of ships at ports to the completion of cargo exchange and departure from berths, ranking 348 container ports worldwide. The ranking aims to identify shortcomings and opportunities for improvement, in order to benefit major stakeholders in global trade, including governments, shipping companies, port and terminal operators, shippers, logistics companies, and consumers.

One of the highlights mentioned in the report is the Yangshan Port in China. Although the operation of Yangshan Port in 2022 was severely disrupted by typhoons and various other factors, its operational efficiency still ranks first in the world.

In addition to Yangshan Port, ports in the Middle East and North Africa continued to perform well this year, with three ports ranking among the top five in the world: Oman Salalah Port ranked second, Abu Dhabi Halifa Port ranked third, and Tangier Mediterranean Port ranked fourth.

The performance of Latin American ports has improved since 2022: Cartagena Port in Colombia ranks fifth globally, and Posolha Port in Ecuador ranks 19th.

In Southeast Asia, Malaysia's Danjung Parapas Port has risen to sixth place this year, with Vietnam's Tsai Mei Port and Singapore Port ranking 12th and 18th respectively.

The port of Algeciras in Spain ranks 16th globally and is the highest ranked port in Europe.

The top ranked ports in North America are Wilmington Port (44th) and Virginia Port (52nd) in North Carolina.

Berbera Port, ranked 144, is the highest ranked port in sub Sah Africa. Many ports in the region continue to face the problem of long ship turnover times, posing a continuous risk of disruption to the supply chain.

Martin Humphreys, the chief transport economist of the World Bank, said: "Improving port efficiency is crucial to unlocking Africa's economic growth and development. African ports are important portals for promoting trade and commerce, and their efficient operation also contributes to food security. Their efficient operation is a key element for Africa to realize its economic potential.