Global Container Shipping Alliances in 2025: A Deep Dive into the Shifting Landscape and Its Impact on International Trade
Global Container Shipping Alliances in 2025: A Deep Dive into the Shifting Landscape and Its Impact on International Trade
The global container shipping industry, which moves goods worth over $9 trillion annually, is about to experience a significant shake-up. Strategic alliances between major container carriers have long played a crucial role in global trade, optimizing operations and reducing costs for businesses worldwide. As we approach 2025, significant changes in these alliances will reshape trade routes, market shares, and overall logistics dynamics. For businesses that rely on international shipping, staying informed and prepared for these shifts is essential.
At Southern Star Navigation, an independent Landstar agent, we pride ourselves on being experts in international shipping. Our deep understanding of the container shipping industry, combined with decades of experience, allows us to guide businesses through the complexities of global logistics. With our complimentary consultation and a range of tools, like our CBM calculator, we are committed to making shipping simple and efficient for businesses of all sizes.
In this article, we explore the upcoming changes to global container shipping alliances, providing insights into how they will affect trade routes, market share, and the shipping industry as a whole.
The Evolution of Global Shipping Alliances
Shipping alliances emerged in the mid-1990s, allowing companies to share vessels, manage capacity, and optimize trade routes. The introduction of larger container vessels enabled these alliances to achieve economies of scale, leading to significant cost savings.
By 1997, around 70% of the services on key East-West trade routes were controlled by four major alliances. Over time, mergers and acquisitions reshaped the market, with players like Maersk, MSC, and CMA CGM rising to the top.
Fast forward to 2023, and the container shipping landscape is dominated by three major alliances:
- 2M Alliance (MSC and Maersk)
- Ocean Alliance (CMA CGM, COSCO, Evergreen, and OOCL)
- THE Alliance (ONE, Yang Ming, HMM, and Hapag-Lloyd)
However, the dissolution of the 2M Alliance in early 2023 has set the stage for a significant reorganization in the industry.
The Global Container Shipping Landscape in 2025
By 2025, the structure of global container shipping alliances will look drastically different. Below is a breakdown of the key players, market share, and operational strategies for the major alliances and independent carriers.
As you can see from the table above, the dissolution of the 2M Alliance leads to the creation of the Gemini Cooperation, a powerful new alliance between Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd. Meanwhile, the Ocean Alliance remains the largest, commanding 29.10% of the global market share. MSC, the largest individual carrier, will continue to operate independently, holding a 19.90% share of the market.
Below is a visual representation of the expected market shares in 2025:
This pie chart clearly illustrates how the market will be divided between the major alliances and independent carriers. The largest share will be held by the Ocean Alliance, while the Gemini Cooperation and MSC will follow closely behind.
Key Changes in 2025 and What They Mean for Your Business
1. The End of the 2M Alliance
One of the most significant changes in the container shipping industry is the dissolution of the 2M Alliance, which previously represented a powerful partnership between MSC and Maersk. This alliance allowed the two largest carriers to optimize capacity and streamline trade routes, particularly in the East-West trade lanes.
With the end of the 2M Alliance in January 2025, both carriers will pursue independent strategies:
- MSC will operate independently, relying on its massive fleet of over 6.1 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) as of September 2024, with an additional 1.8 million TEUs on order.
- Maersk, on the other hand, will join forces with Hapag-Lloyd to form the Gemini Cooperation, which will focus on providing efficient services on key trade routes, including the Trans-Atlantic and Asia-Europe routes.
2. The Rise of the Gemini Cooperation
Starting in February 2025, the Gemini Cooperation will become the second-largest global container shipping alliance, commanding 21.60% of the market. This partnership between Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd will operate 26 mainline services across seven major trade routes and employ a hub-and-spoke model to maximize efficiency.
The Gemini Cooperation aims to enhance service quality, reduce emissions, and improve reliability, making it an attractive option for businesses looking to streamline their global supply chains.
3. The Continued Dominance of the Ocean Alliance
The Ocean Alliance, comprising CMA CGM, COSCO Shipping, Evergreen, and OOCL, extended its cooperation agreement in February 2024, solidifying its presence until 2032. This alliance will maintain its position as the largest global container shipping alliance, commanding 29.10% of the market.
For businesses that rely on Asia-Europe and Trans-Pacific trade routes, the Ocean Alliance offers stability and a wide range of shipping options, making it a key player in global logistics.
4. The Emergence of the Premier Alliance
Following Hapag-Lloyd’s departure, the remaining members of THE Alliance (ONE, Yang Ming, HMM) will form a new partnership called the Premier Alliance, which will begin operations in February 2025. The Premier Alliance will work closely with MSC on the Asia-Europe trade route, utilizing slot-chartering agreements to optimize capacity and services.
Despite a reduced market share of 11.60%, the Premier Alliance will focus on expanding its influence in key regions like the Trans-Pacific and Asia-Middle East routes.
5. The Role of Independent Carriers
As the largest independent carrier, MSC holds a unique position in the market. Its decision to operate independently allows it to maintain flexibility and control over its services. MSC’s scale ensures that it remains competitive, offering reliable shipping options for businesses without the constraints of alliance membership.
Meanwhile, non-alliance lines, including ZIM, will continue to play a vital role in global shipping, particularly in niche markets and specialized trade routes. By 2025, non-alliance carriers are expected to account for 17.80% of the global market share, a significant increase from previous years.
Navigating the New Shipping Landscape with Southern Star Navigation
As the global shipping industry undergoes these transformations, businesses must adapt to the new realities of container shipping alliances and trade routes. At Southern Star Navigation, we understand the complexities of international shipping and are here to help businesses of all sizes navigate these changes.
Whether you’re looking for guidance on optimizing your shipping strategy, need assistance with maximizing your throughput, or want to ensure your shipments are handled efficiently, we’re here to provide expert advice. Our team is committed to helping you find the best solutions for your shipping needs, ensuring your goods reach their destination on time and within budget.
For the latest updates on the global shipping industry, be sure to check out our blog, where we regularly post insights and news on the container shipping industry.
You can also reach us at 833-782-7628 for any questions or to speak directly with one of our Star experts at Ext. 1.
Preparing for the Future of Global Shipping
The container shipping industry is entering a new era, with significant changes expected in 2025. The dissolution of the 2M Alliance, the rise of the Gemini Cooperation, and the continued dominance of the Ocean Alliance are set to reshape the global shipping landscape.
For businesses that rely on international shipping, staying informed about these changes is crucial. At Southern Star Navigation, we’re here to help you navigate the complexities of the industry, offering expert guidance and tools to streamline your shipping operations. With our experience and deep industry knowledge, we’re your trusted partner in international logistics.
Let us help you prepare for the future of global shipping. Contact us today for a complimentary consultation and find out how we can optimize your shipping strategy for the road ahead.
