CMA CGM to invest $20 billion in US shipbuilding, port infrastructure and automotive platforms

Global shipping group CMA CGM has announced $20 billion to support the US maritime economy and help transform the domestic supply chain over the next four years. The move comes amid a trade war between the US, its North American neighbours and China, as well as the threat of port fees of up to $3.5m on China-related vessel calls to US ports.

CMA CGM’s investment will include more ships for its APL subsidiary sailing under a US flag, expanding the fleet to 40 vessels, as well as financing aimed at strengthening American shipbuilding. According to data provider VesselBot, almost 36% of the French-owned group’s fleet of vessels were built in China and they make almost 1,500 annual US port calls. Under the USTR proposals they would subject to approximately $760,000 per port call.

CMA CGM has a fleet of more than 650 ships and a combined capacity of 23.6m TEUs.

Ports and platforms
The group said it will develop container port infrastructure in key locations around the US coasts, including New York, Los Angeles, Dutch Harbor (Alaska), Houston and Miami. The investments will contribute to efficient supply chain operations, with accelerated digitalisation and improved connectivity, and increased safety for port workers and cargo, according to the company.

CMA CGM is also investing in warehousing, with 400 new and expanded sites planned, and funding automotive logistics platforms across the country. 

“I am proud to build on our long-standing relationship with the United States through this commitment of $20 billion to the country’s maritime future and logistics capabilities,” said Rodolphe Saadé. “Over the next four years, we will significantly grow our US-flagged fleet, expand the capacity of key container ports on both coasts, develop state-of-the-art warehousing across the country, and establish a significant air cargo hub in Chicago. This will create 10,000 new American jobs and further strengthen our partnership with American customers and public authorities.”

CMA CGM’s investments go beyond ports and shipping, with a commitment to expand American air cargo capacity with a hub in Chicago. The company will deploy five new Boeing 777 freighters “to strengthen US trade and connectivity and ensure the reliable transport of critical and time-sensitive goods”.

It will also open a new logistics research and development hub in Boston, focusing on advanced robotics and automation with the aim of optimising logistics services.

In its outlook for 2025 CMA CGM said the prospect of higher tariffs announced in the US could have an impact on trade and lead to a reorganisation of global supply chains in the medium term. However, deliveries of new vessels and positive developments in the Red Sea will be decisive factors in shaping the market, according to the company. CMA CGM said it was paying close attention to the changing economic and geopolitical situation and remained confident in its ability to weather the cycle thanks to its diversification and financial strength.