An infographic released by Alphaliner shows the massive increase in the main container liners’ operating margins in Q1, 2015 in comparison to the same period in 2014.
According to the infographic, Wan Hai has seen the biggest percentage increase in its operating profit between both periods, with Maersk Line soaring ahead with the most operating profit made, exceeding US$730 million in Q1, 2015.
In a previous article published by PTI, it was reported that Maersk’s underlying profit increased by 18% to $1.3 billion in Q1.
Maersk Group anticipates a total underlying profit of $4 billion for 2015, based on the strong start seen so far for the year.
This increase in operating profit comes amid global concern that the container shipping industry is experiencing an intense period of debt, reaching as much as $80 billion as a result of the financial crisis of 2008.
This figure could potentially be intensified following the IMO’s new low-sulphur regulations that could cause shipping lines to foot a massive half-a-trillion fuel-bill over the next 10 years.
Experts have said that the shipping industry risks bankruptcy unless it begins to sell off its assets in order to stay afloat.
