85% of traded goods are transported by ships

Omissions

• The specific figure of 85% is not directly cited in primary UNCTAD sources; the authoritative figure is 'around 80%' for trade by volume.
• The percentage varies depending on whether measuring by volume (tonnage) or by value. By value, the maritime share is lower (approximately 70%).
• UNCTAD's Review of Maritime Transport 2024 was published in October 2024, and Review of Maritime Transport 2025 was published in late 2025, both before the session date of April 2026.

Sources

• PrimaryUNCTAD Review of Maritime TransportAround 80% of the volume of international trade in goods is carried by sea
• PrimaryUNCTAD Review of Maritime Transport 2024Global maritime trade data and statistics; confirms maritime transport carries the vast majority of global trade volume