Hapag-Lloyd has signed an agreement to acquire 100 percent of ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd. in a deal valued at more than 4 billion dollars, marking one of the largest consolidation moves in the container shipping sector in recent years.
Under the terms of the agreement, Hapag Lloyd will pay 35 dollars per share in cash. The transaction is subject to approval from ZIM shareholders and regulatory authorities, with completion expected by late 2026.
Alongside the acquisition, Israel based private equity group FIMI Opportunity Funds will establish a new Israeli container line carved out from ZIM’s operations. The new company will inherit the ZIM brand and the special state share currently held by the State of Israel, while operating an initial fleet of 16 vessels focused on strategic trade lanes linked to Hapag-Lloyd’s global network.
If completed, the combined business would operate more than 400 vessels with a standing capacity exceeding 3 million TEU and annual volumes above 18 million TEU. Hapag-Lloyd said the merger would secure its position as the world’s fifth largest container shipping company and strengthen its presence across major trades including the Transpacific, Intra Asia, Atlantic and Mediterranean.
The company expects the transaction to generate several hundred million dollars in annual synergies, supported by integrated operations, digital innovation and shared workforce expertise.
Both companies will continue to operate independently until closing, maintaining existing vessel sharing and slot charter agreements while competing commercially as usual. Hapag-Lloyd said the merger aims to enhance global network coverage and service quality while building a long term presence in Israel through the partnership structure.
