Egypt ranked first in Africa and 19th globally in the Liner Shipping Connectivity Index (LSCI) during the first quarter of 2026, according to data released by UNCTAD.
The country also placed second among Arab nations, behind the United Arab Emirates.
The report highlighted Egypt as the most connected maritime hub on the continent, supported by its strategic ports along the Mediterranean and Red Sea shipping routes, key arteries for global trade flows between East and West.
In Asia, China continues to dominate maritime connectivity, with its ports serving as a cornerstone of global shipping networks. Other leading Asian economies include South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Japan, India, as well as Hong Kong and Taiwan.
Meanwhile, the United States leads North America with its extensive port infrastructure, while Spain tops Europe thanks to strong intra- and inter-regional shipping links. In Latin America and the Caribbean, Panama ranks first, leveraging the strategic importance of the Panama Canal.
Mohamed Abu El-Saud, a senior official at the Holding Company for Maritime and Land Transport, described Egypt’s ranking as a “notable achievement,” reflecting years of sustained investment in maritime infrastructure.
He noted that the progress stems from large-scale upgrades led by the Ministry of Transport, including the construction of new berths, deepening of navigation channels, and the development of advanced container terminals capable of accommodating mega-ships.
These enhancements have strengthened partnerships with major global shipping lines and operators, increasing the frequency and diversity of maritime services connecting Egyptian ports to international markets.
The LSCI, published annually by UNCTAD, measures how well countries are integrated into global container shipping networks based on factors such as ship capacity, number of services, and shipping companies.
Officials say Egypt’s improved ranking supports its broader ambition to position itself as a regional logistics hub and a key gateway for global trade, leveraging its geographic advantage at the crossroads of major international shipping routes.
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