Hapag-Lloyd, one of the world’s leading container shipping companies, has agreed to acquire 100% of ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd., the 10th largest container shipping line, for $35.00 per share in cash.
The total transaction value exceeds $4 billion, representing a significant premium for ZIM shareholders. The deal is expected to close by late 2026, pending shareholder and regulatory approvals.
The merger will create a combined company with a capacity of over 3 million TEU, operating more than 400 vessels and transporting upwards of 18 million TEU annually. This positions Hapag-Lloyd as the fifth-largest container shipping company worldwide and enhances its presence across major global trade routes.
Customer benefits and network strengthening
According to Hapag-Lloyd’s press release, customers will benefit from a significantly stronger network, especially across Transpacific, Intra-Asia, Atlantic, Latin America, and East Mediterranean routes. The transaction is expected to generate several hundred million dollars in annual synergies and will leverage both companies’ expertise and technologies, while continuing to focus on profitable growth and superior customer service.
Together, we will set new benchmarks of excellence and secure our position as the undisputed number one for quality in our industry.
CEO of Hapag-Lloyd
Strategic Role for Israel and FIMI Opportunity Funds
The State of Israel’s Special State Share (Golden Share) in ZIM will be transferred to a new Israeli container line, operated by FIMI Opportunity Funds, Israel’s largest private equity firm. This new entity, "New ZIM," will begin operations with 16 modern vessels, inherit the ZIM brand, and take responsibility for the Golden Share. FIMI will lead New ZIM to maintain stable operations, high quality, and a strong commitment to its stakeholders.
Rolf Habben Jansen, CEO of Hapag-Lloyd, highlighted the collaborative vision to set new benchmarks of excellence and secure their position as the industry’s top provider of quality. Yair Seroussi, Chairman of ZIM’s Board, emphasised the need to maximise shareholder value through a thorough strategic review. Ishay Davidi, CEO of FIMI Funds, stated that New ZIM will be a stable Israeli company with Hapag-Lloyd as a strategic partner.
Until the transaction closes, Hapag-Lloyd and ZIM will continue to operate as competitors, with collaboration limited to existing vessel-sharing and slot-charter agreements. The merger awaits approval from ZIM shareholders and regulatory authorities, expected by late 2026.
Impact on Rival Shipping Companies
This merger marks a significant move in the container shipping industry. By securing a fifth-place market position and strengthening the Gemini Alliance, especially in transpacific trade, Hapag-Lloyd has intensified competition among top carriers. The combined entity’s capacity of around 3.1 million TEU presents new challenges for competitors such as MSC, Maersk, ONE, and Cosco.
Competitors may need to reevaluate strategies in key routes like the Atlantic and transpacific corridors, where Hapag-Lloyd will have a larger share. MSC and Maersk, previously rumoured to be interested in acquiring ZIM, may look to bolster fleets or pursue new partnerships. ZIM’s flexible fleet structure, reliant on chartered vessels, could prompt others to reconsider asset and charter strategies to remain agile.
The focus on synergies and expanded presence in intra-European and transpacific trades may push other carriers to seek efficiency gains, strengthen alliances, and innovate services. Regulatory requirements and the handling of strategic Israeli shipping assets add complexity but also set a precedent for managing national interests in future mergers.
Overall, Hapag-Lloyd’s acquisition is expected to trigger competitive responses as shipping companies aim to maintain their position in a rapidly consolidating industry.
