The reorganisation of container liner shipping is casting its shadow. The “Ocean Alliance” has now been the first to publish an update of its liner network.
In February, the forces on the seas will be reorganized: Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd will launch their Gemini Cooperation, MSC will sail alone and the “Premier Alliance” of the former Hapag-Lloyd partners will continue with only three partners. Only the “Ocean Alliance” will continue unchanged.
The alliance of CMA CGM, Cosco, OOCL and Evergreen, which has existed since 2017, was and remains the largest of the liner alliances. At the beginning of 2024, the contract was extended by another five years until 2032.
In view of the continuing threat situation in the Red Sea due to the ongoing attacks by the Houthi movement in Yemen, the timetable in force from April, also known as the “Day 9” offer, includes alternative routes around the Cape of Good Hope in addition to the traditional route through the Suez Canal.
This covers the important transpacific, Asia-Europe and Far East-Middle East trade routes. “In an ever-changing market environment, this initiative undoubtedly reflects Ocean Alliance’s confidence in providing stable and reliable services to its customers over the long term,” OOCL explained in a statement.
Most recently, the four shipping companies operated 321 container ships with a total capacity of 4.5 million TEU. More than a third of the tonnage is provided by CMA CGM, the largest of the partners.
By comparison, the Gemini Cooperation will comprise a fleet pool of around 290 ships with a combined capacity of 3.4 million TEU. Maersk will provide 60% and Hapag-Lloyd 40% of the capacity.
