Hapag-Lloyd acquires ZIM as the shipping giant enters into a definitive merger agreement to acquire ZIM Integrated Shipping Services for $35.00 per share in cash. The transaction values ZIM at approximately $4.2 billion and represents a 58 percent premium over its closing share price on 13 February 2026. Upon completion, the deal positions Hapag-Lloyd as the fifth-largest container shipping line in the world by capacity.
Combined Fleet To Exceed 3 Million TEU Capacity
The merger brings together Hapag-Lloyd’s global infrastructure with ZIM’s technology focused fleet and commercial operations. By 2027, the combined entity is expected to operate more than 400 modern vessels with total capacity exceeding 3 million TEU. Annual container volume is projected to surpass 18 million TEU.
The acquisition strengthens Hapag-Lloyd’s presence across major trade lanes, including Transpacific, Intra Asia, Atlantic, and Latin American routes. ZIM customers are expected to gain access to the Gemini Cooperation network, a shipping alliance co founded by Hapag-Lloyd that focuses on schedule reliability and expanded port coverage.
For business owners involved in global trade, logistics, and supply chain management, the consolidation signals further concentration within the container shipping industry. Hapag-Lloyd acquires ZIM may provide greater scale, expanded route networks and integrated services across key export and import corridors.
ZIM Chief Executive Officer Eli Glickman described the agreement as the culmination of a transformation that began in 2017. Since its initial public offering in 2021, ZIM has returned approximately 10 billion dollars to shareholders through dividends and the current cash consideration. The company has invested heavily in liquefied natural gas powered vessels, which now account for around 40 percent of its fleet capacity, and in digital systems aimed at improving operational efficiency.
New ZIM To Maintain Israeli Maritime Operations
As part of the transaction structure, FIMI Opportunity Funds will establish a new Israeli incorporated liner company known as New ZIM. Hapag-Lloyd acquires ZIM commercially supports New ZIM, which will operate independently and own/manage 16 vessels dedicated to critical trade routes connecting Israel with the European Union and the United States.
New ZIM will receive commercial support from Hapag-Lloyd and gain access to the Gemini network to maintain route connectivity. FIMI will assume responsibility for the Special State Share obligations associated with ZIM. These provisions ensure vessel availability during national emergencies and preserve certain strategic maritime functions.
Hapag-Lloyd acquires ZIM and has stated that it intends to maintain a meaningful business presence in Israel and retain ZIM’s specialized workforce during the transition period. The merger is expected to close by late 2026, subject to approval by ZIM shareholders, regulatory clearances in multiple jurisdictions, and formal consent related to the Special State Share.
For entrepreneurs and business leaders in shipping, freight forwarding, and international commerce, the transaction reflects ongoing consolidation within the container shipping sector. Scale, digital integration, and fuel efficiency remain central competitive factors as carriers seek to strengthen service coverage and operational resilience across global trade networks.
