Early forecasts on the container shipping sector in 2011 appear positive, with global trade volumes projected to grow by 9.7 per cent to 153 million TEU with the north-south trades leading the way, according to the latest figures released by maritime consultancy group Clarkson Research Services.

"North-south trade is projected to increase by 10.8 per cent in full year 2011, with developing economies in Latin America and Sub-Saharan Africa being key areas for future trade growth," the group said in its recently released Container Intelligence Monthly report.