The German container shipping line has entered an advanced phase of regulatory engagement, conducting increasingly substantive and direct discussions with competition and maritime authorities globally to secure all required approvals for the transaction.

Hapag-Lloyd and ZIM executed a binding merger agreement in February 2024, and the transaction has since received unconditional approval from both companies’ shareholders.

“We are actively collaborating with the relevant regulatory authorities to obtain all necessary clearances,” stated Mr. Habben Jansen. “Discussions have progressed to a stage of sustained, two-way dialogue—characterized by technical depth and mutual transparency—as we work constructively toward resolution.”

He emphasized Hapag-Lloyd’s continued strong conviction in the strategic rationale of the transaction, while acknowledging that targeted refinements to the proposal may be required to fully address regulatory feedback and safeguard public interest considerations.

Strategically, the combination is expected to reinforce Hapag-Lloyd’s global market position and expand its operational footprint through access to ZIM’s modern fleet, skilled workforce, and diversified customer portfolio.

Upon completion, the merged entity would operate a fleet of over 400 vessels, with total owned and chartered capacity exceeding 3 million TEU and annual cargo throughput surpassing 18 million TEU.

In close coordination with its partners, Hapag-Lloyd is finalizing an enhanced undertaking specifically designed to address the concerns raised by the Government of Israel and other competent authorities. This revised commitment includes concrete measures to bolster Israel’s maritime security resilience and long-term strategic autonomy—particularly through strengthened safeguards aligned with the country’s Golden Share mechanism.

Resource.: https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/8BgcfF3LdXh3hzmFBO9XpA