Fitch says global shipping outlook is deteriorating in 2026

FITCH Ratings has maintained its deteriorating outlook for the global shipping sector, reflecting geopolitical and policy risks, according to an Outlook report released recently.

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“The sector will also be affected by the lower GDP growth we expect across most major economies in 2026 compared to 2025, with downside risk from any correction in financial markets,’ Fitch said. A key event risk across shipping segments is a resumption of Red Sea transits leading to a reduction in tonne-mile demand,

although there is limited visibility on this possible development.