Chipolbrok expands operations amid FMC classification as Chinese-controlled carrier.
The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) has officially classified the shipping company Chipolbrok as a Chinese-controlled shipping company. The carrier, operating a fleet of 33 multipurpose vessels (MPP), is a joint venture between Chinese and Polish stakeholders, with its headquarters located in Shanghai.
Following a detailed review of the company’s ownership and governance structure, the FMC concluded that the People’s Republic of China (PRC) exercises greater influence over Chipolbrok’s commercial and strategic operations than its Polish counterpart. As a result, the carrier now falls under the FMC’s definition of a “controlled carrier”—a designation applied to ocean carriers that are either directly or indirectly owned or controlled by a foreign government and operate in U.S. foreign commerce. This status subjects Chipolbrok to stricter regulatory oversight.
Middle East expansion signals strategic growth
Founded in 1951, Chipolbrok continues to grow its global presence. Its current fleet includes ten “Orkan”-type vessels (30,300 tdw) and four “Pacific”-type ships (31,600 tdw), with newbuild orders in the pipeline—including units over 60,000 tdw.
To support its regional growth strategy, the company has recently opened a new office in Dubai, strengthening its position in the Middle East, Africa, and the Indian subcontinent. The Dubai office is led by shipping industry veterans Marek Rzepiak and Jacob Xu, both of whom bring extensive experience from previous leadership roles within Chipolbrok and Hongfa Shipping.
The move reflects Chipolbrok’s commitment to expanding its role in global logistics, even as it faces heightened scrutiny as a Chinese-controlled shipping company under U.S. regulations.
