HMM reported strong performance in the second quarter of 2026, driven by rising maritime freight rates and improved fleet operational efficiency.
On August 13, HMM announced that it achieved a revenue of 3.402 trillion won and an operating profit of 354.1 billion won for the second quarter, marking increases of 30% and 52%, respectively, compared to the same period last year. For the first half of the year, the company recorded revenues of 6.12 trillion won and an operating profit of 623.2 billion won, with an operating profit margin of 10.2%.
The strong results were attributed to a surge in maritime freight rates. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East and risks such as the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz have led to a significant increase in global shipping costs. The Shanghai Containerized Freight Index (SCFI) averaged 1,957 points in the first half of this year, a 15% rise from the average of 1,701 points in the same period last year.
Despite rising fuel costs and supply chain uncertainties due to the prolonged conflict in the Middle East, HMM stated that it has defended its profitability through efficient fleet operations.
The company anticipates that supply chain uncertainties will continue in the second half of the year, citing external factors such as U.S. tariff policies, disruptions in the Panama Canal, congestion at major ports, and the ongoing Middle East conflict.
HMM plans to continue its large-scale investments despite these uncertainties. Recently, it expanded its long-term strategic investment plan for 2030 to approximately 29 trillion won. A company representative stated, "This investment is not merely for expansion but is a proactive measure based on predictions for the market in 2 to 3 years. In a situation where global shipping prices are continuously rising, securing vessels at relatively lower prices now is a strategic investment aimed at maximizing future profits and ensuring sustainable growth."
Meanwhile, HMM is accelerating its headquarters relocation process, having finalized a lease agreement for four floors of the DB Insurance building in Busanjin-gu, Busan, last month.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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