The continuous expansion of global trade has significantly increased the volume of containerized cargo moving across international borders, thereby driving demand for efficient, automated container-handling solutions. As seaborne trade remains the backbone of global commerce, ports worldwide are under growing pressure to enhance throughput capacity, reduce vessel turnaround time, and improve overall terminal efficiency. Automated Container Terminals (ACTs) have emerged as a vital solution to address these operational demands by leveraging robotics, AI, and advanced logistics technologies. Rising globalization, coupled with the growth of e-commerce and cross-border supply chains, is further accelerating the need for automation in port operations. Automated cranes, driverless vehicles, and digital port management systems are increasingly being deployed to handle large container volumes with precision and minimal human intervention.
In addition, the increasing complexity of global logistics networks and the expansion of free trade zones are compelling ports to adopt next-generation automated systems to remain competitive. Automation not only supports higher container throughput but also ensures greater operational accuracy, sustainability, and adaptability to fluctuating trade demands. As international maritime trade continues to surge, automation technologies such as AGVs, automated stacking cranes, and digital twin-based monitoring systems are becoming indispensable for optimizing performance and reducing operational bottlenecks. Thus, the surge in international trade volumes and the growing need for efficient container handling are propelling the adoption of automated container terminals globally, solidifying automation as a key pillar for future ready, resilient, and high-performing port operations.
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Data Bridge market research analyzes that The Global Automated Container Terminal Market is expected to reach USD 17.79 billion by 2032 from USD 10.15 billion in 2024, growing with a substantial CAGR of 7.3% in the forecast period of 2025 to 2032.
Key Findings of the Study
Proliferation of Automation, Robotics, and AI in Port Operations
The global container-terminal industry is undergoing a significant technological transformation, driven by rising investments in automation, robotics, and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Port operators are increasingly deploying automated guided vehicles (AGVs), robotic stacking cranes, digital twin simulations, and AI-driven scheduling systems to improve precision, reduce manual intervention, and optimize throughput amid higher cargo volumes and greater operational complexity. These technologies help terminals streamline workflows, enable 24/7 operations, reduce labor-related disruptions, and enhance safety and environmental performance.
Thus, the proliferation of automation, robotics, and AI in port operations is fundamentally reshaping container terminals worldwide. By enabling higher throughput, reducing human error, improving safety, and supporting 24/7 operations, these technologies allow ports to handle growing trade volumes while optimizing resource use and sustainability. Consequently, automation and AI are becoming indispensable components of modern port infrastructure, driving competitiveness, operational resilience, and the future of global maritime logistics.
Moreover, the integration of advanced machine learning algorithms, Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, and predictive maintenance tools further enhances decision-making and equipment reliability. Smart automation enables real-time monitoring, adaptive scheduling, and proactive asset management, reducing operational bottlenecks and energy consumption. As ports embrace these digital innovations, they achieve improved efficiency, scalability, and sustainability—strengthening their ability to meet evolving global trade demands and maintain long-term growth in an increasingly interconnected maritime ecosystem.
Report Scope and Market Segmentation
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Report Metric
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Details
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Forecast Period
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2025 to 2032
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Base Year
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2024
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Historic Years
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2023 (Customizable to 2018-2022)
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Quantitative Units
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Revenue in USD Thousand
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Segments Covered
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By Degree of Automation (Semi-Automated Terminals, Fully Automated
Terminals), Project Type (Brownfield Projects, Greenfields Projects), Offerings (Equipment, Software, Services), End-User (Port Operators, Port Authorities, Logistics & Intermodal Operators, Industrial and Energy Sector Terminals, Others)
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Countries Covered
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U.S., Canada, Mexico, Germany, France, U.K., Italy, Russia, Spain, Switzerland, Netherlands, Turkey, Belgium, Rest of Europe, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, Australia, Rest of Asia-Pacific, Brazil, Argentina, Rest of South America, Saudi Arabia, U.A.E., South Africa, Egypt, Israel, Rest of Middle East and Africa
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Market Players Covered
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Data Points Covered in the Report
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In addition to the insights on market scenarios such as market value, growth rate, segmentation, geographical coverage, and major players, the market reports curated by the Data Bridge Market Research also include in-depth expert analysis, industry analysis & futuristic scenario, penetration and growth prospect mapping, competitor key pricing strategies, and technology analysis
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Segment Analysis
The Global Automated Container Terminal Market is segmented into four notable segments based on degree of automation, project type, offering, end use.
- On the basis of degree of automation, the market is segmented into semi-automated terminals, fully-automated terminals.
In 2025, the semi-automated terminals segment is expected to dominate the market
In 2025, the semi-automated terminals segment is expected to dominate the market with a market share of 65.90% due to lower implementation costs compared to fully automated systems, ease of integration with existing infrastructure, and reduced operational risks. Their balance between automation efficiency and human control makes them an attractive option for ports transitioning toward full automation. Additionally, semi-automated terminals allow gradual technology adoption, minimizing disruption to port operations while enhancing flexibility and scalability. Their proven reliability, lower maintenance requirements, and adaptability to diverse port environments further drive their widespread preference across global maritime hubs.
- On the basis of project type, the market is segmented into brownfield projects, greenfield projects.
In 2025, the brownfield projects segment is expected to dominate the market
In 2025, brownfield projects segment dominates the market with a market share of 65.15% due to its cost-effectiveness, shorter implementation time, and ability to upgrade existing terminals without requiring new land. Many port authorities prefer modernizing established facilities using automation technologies to improve capacity, operational efficiency, and sustainability while minimizing disruptions to ongoing port operations. Moreover, brownfield projects enable ports to leverage existing infrastructure, reduce environmental impact, and ensure faster return on investment, making them a strategic choice for automation upgrades.
- On the basis of offering, the market is segmented into equipment, software and services.
In 2025, the equipment segment is expected to dominate the market
In 2025, the equipment segment is expected to dominate the market with a market share of 50.77% as increasing demand for automated cranes, guided vehicles, and stacking systems drives investments in advanced handling solutions. The focus on improving operational accuracy, reducing turnaround times, and minimizing labor dependency further accelerates equipment adoption in automated container terminals worldwide. Furthermore, continuous technological advancements, integration of AI and IoT for real-time monitoring, and growing emphasis on sustainability and energy-efficient machinery bolster the segment’s dominance.
- On the basis of end user, the market is segmented into port operators, port authorities, logistics & intermodal operators, industrial and energy sector terminals and others.
In 2025, the port operators segment is expected to dominate the market
In 2025, the port operators segment is expected to dominate the market with a market share of 40.34% as they are the primary adopters of automation technologies to enhance productivity, safety, and cost efficiency. Their strategic initiatives toward digital transformation, coupled with partnerships with technology providers and government authorities, enable large-scale implementation of automated terminal solutions across global ports.
Major Players
LIEBHERR Group, Beckhoff Automation, Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries Co., Ltd., Konecranes, Kalmar Corporation, among others.
Market Developments
- In October 2025, Hapag-Lloyd and DP World renewed their long-term partnership at the Port of Santos in Brazil. This extension secures collaboration for the next decade and includes a major expansion of the terminal, increasing quay length and annual handling capacity, which will allow Hapag-Lloyd to handle larger vessels and deliver new services for customers.
- In September 2025, Liebherr and TPT entered into a 10-year strategic partnership agreement aimed at modernizing and enhancing efficiency across South Africa’s port operations. The agreement includes the supply of four large STS cranes for the Port of Durban and 48 rubber tyred gantry (RTG) cranes for the Durban and Cape Town terminals, along with a 20-year asset management program to ensure long-term reliability of the equipment.
- In September 2025, Hiab Corporation signed a partnership with Forterra to accelerate the development of autonomous trucking and load handling solutions. This aims to elevate autonomous capabilities, enhancing sustainability and safety in logistics workflows.
- In August 2025, ÖBB-Infrastruktur AG, in partnership with IDENTEC SOLUTIONS AG, commissioned a fully automated monitoring system for temperature-controlled containers at the Wolfurt freight terminal in Austria. The Reefer Runner system enabled continuous digital monitoring of refrigerated containers on-site, transmitting operational and temperature data wirelessly to a central system. This initiative marked a move towards enhancing rail’s role in sustainable freight transpor.
- In December 2024, Konecranes completed the acquisition of Rotterdam-based Peinemann Port Services BV and Peinemann Container Handling BV after receiving approval from the Dutch competition authority. The acquisition, valued at an undisclosed amount, added approximately 100 employees and strengthened Konecranes' position in the Netherlands, particularly in the Rotterdam area
- In March 2024, ABB, in collaboration with Austrian crane builder Kuenz, secured a significant contract for the expansion of APM Terminals Maasvlakte II (MVII) in Rotterdam. The project involved delivering 62 automatic stacking cranes and one intermodal yard crane equipped with advanced electrical and automation technology, aiming to double the terminal's container capacity.
Regional Analysis
Geographically, the countries covered in the Global Automated Container Terminal Market report are (U.S., Canada, Mexico, Germany, France, U.K., Italy, Russia, Spain, Switzerland, Netherlands, Turkey, Belgium, Rest of Europe, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, Australia, Rest of Asia-Pacific, Brazil, Argentina, Rest of South America, Saudi Arabia, U.A.E., South Africa, Egypt, Israel, Rest of Middle East and Africa).
As per Data Bridge Market Research analysis:
Asia-Pacific is the dominant region in the Global Automated Container Terminal Market during the forecast period of 2025 to 2032
Asia-Pacific is expected to dominate the market due to rapid expansion of port infrastructure, strong government investments in smart port technologies, increasing international trade volumes, and the presence of major economies such as China, Japan, and South Korea. Advanced automation adoption and rising maritime logistics demand further strengthen regional leadership. Additionally, supportive regulatory frameworks, rising focus on operational efficiency, and increasing private sector participation in port modernization projects further enhance Asia-Pacific’s dominance in the automated container terminal market.
Furthermore, Asia-Pacific is expected to grow fastest during the forecast period due to owing to surging containerized trade, digital transformation initiatives in port operations, increasing deployment of AI and IoT-based automation systems, and growing collaborations between technology providers and port authorities. Rising e-commerce activities and strategic coastal development projects also accelerate market expansion across the region.
North America is anticipated to be the witness growth after Asia-Pacific in the Global Automated Container Terminal Market
North America growth in the global automated container terminal market is driven by the increasing adoption of advanced port automation technologies, rising labor costs encouraging automation, and strong investments in upgrading aging port infrastructure. Additionally, the presence of key technology providers, growing trade activities, and emphasis on enhancing port efficiency and sustainability support market.
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