Esgian Shipping RoRo and MPP Market Reports for March 2026

RoRo March 2026 highlights:

Arabian Gulf: Market Impact: Asian operators account for ~75% of traffic, with Far East–Arabian Gulf activity rising since 2021. Potential toll charges could drive rerouting to alternative ports and more optimised voyage planning, including fewer regional calls.

Trade Route Analysis: Far East to Arabian Gulf: Far East–Arabian Gulf sailings have more than doubled since 2021, with growth accelerating from 2024. February activity declined due to the
late-month conflict and Strait of Hormuz closure, prompting vessels to reroute and bypass Arabian Gulf calls.

Regional Port Call Focus – Indian Subcontinent: Deep-sea port calls were stable from 2021–2024 before rising sharply in 2025, peaking at 94 calls in September (~60% above average). Elevated activity continued into Q1 2026, with monthly calls remaining in the high 80s.

MPP March 2026 highlights:

Operator Activity: G2 Ocean recorded a 10% QoQ decline in port calls in Q1 2026 but maintained a broad global presence. Activity remained focused in Asia and the Americas, with Europe playing a
secondary role, reflecting continued focus on core transpacific and transatlantic routes.

Trade route analysis – Far East to Arabian Gulf: The Far East–Arabian Gulf trade route expanded from low and volatile activity in 2022 to a stable pattern of around 15 monthly sailings in 2023–2025, with peaks in late 2025, reflecting maturing demand and more structured service deployment.

Regional Port Call Focus – Red Sea: Extended deep-sea port calls in the Red Sea remained stable in 2022–2024, with seasonal fluctuations. Activity declined and became more volatile after November 2023, reflecting rerouting, reduced transits, and heightened regional uncertainty.

Explore the full details and market insights in our comprehensive reports! Our reports are exclusively available to our clients. Please contact us with any inquiries at shipping@esgian.com. For more updates and insights, follow us on LinkedIn.