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WSC reports on containers lost at sea
Photo: Kalyakan / adobe.stockcom
The World Shipping Council (WSC) has reported that 576 containers were lost at sea in 2024. Although this marks a rise from the record-low of 221 boxes in 2023, it still remains well below the ten-year average of 1,274. The figure represents just 0.0002% of the 250 million containers transported worldwide every year.
The WSC attributed the increase largely to disruptions in the Red Sea and a 191% rise in transits around the Cape of Good Hope, a region known for its harsh maritime conditions. South African authorities confirm that around 200 units were lost there.
The report also highlights ongoing safety initiatives, including improved stowage practices, forthcoming mandatory loss reporting to the IMO and the WSC’s ‘Cargo Safety Programme’ to prevent fire risks. Revised rules on charcoal cargoes are also planned for 2026.