Global shipping lines announced major changes ahead of February’s alliance reshuffling. Hapag-Lloyd’s exit from THE Alliance has brought about the formation of the ‘Premier Alliance’, partnering Ocean Network Express (ONE), HMM, and Yang Ming.

Leaving its 2M agreement with Maersk, MSC will largely operate standalone services. The carrier plans to run five East-West trades with 34 loops, including options via the Suez Canal and Cape of Good Hope. It will co-operate with ZIM for the Asia to U.S. East and Gulf Coast services and with Premier Alliance for Asia to Europe routes. These changes are expected to benefit shippers through increased variety and improved service, particularly in Europe, as MSC deploys ultra-large containerships on Asia-Europe trades.

Meanwhile, the Ocean Alliance, which is comprised of CMA CGM, COSCO, Evergreen, and OOCL, will maintain its vessel-sharing agreement until March 2032. Maersk will form the Gemini Cooperation with Hapag-Lloyd and announced that full network plans will be shared next month. The carriers are aiming for 90% schedule reliability.

Source: splash247.com