China, the world's largest exporter and importer, is the world's top shipping nation, according to a report by DNV GL and Menon Economics.

“The Leading Maritime Nations of the World”, presented 5 September at Hamburg's SMM 2018, measures international prowess in shipping, finance and law, maritime technology and ports and logistics.

"The strength of China is overwhelming, particularly on the pillar of ports and logistics, but also in shipping," said Erik Jakobsen, managing partner in Menon Economics and report co-author.