The container handling demand in ports in East Asia is expected to soar by more than 72 per cent from 61 million teus (20-ft equivalent units) last year to 105 million teus by 2000.
Singapore Business Times quoted Andrew Penfold, director of London-based Ocean Shipping Consultants, as saying that the demand would rise further to 255 million teus by 2008.
Even if developed countries in this region exerted protectionism measures leading to slower trade growth, a high demand of 190 million teus could still be expected, he said.
Against the total world container handling demand, this would mean that East Asian ports were slated to take about 52.6-57.2 per cent of the world's share by 2008.
Within the region, Southeast Asia would take the lion's share, or 44 to 46.8 per cent of the demand.
The Chinese port region that encompasses Hong Kong, Taiwan and east and southeast China is forecast to take a 33-36.3 per cent share.