UPDATE: CMA CGM just announced a groundbreaking $10 billion joint venture, United Ports LLC, in collaboration with Stonepeak, shaking up the U.S. waterfront. This ambitious initiative combines 10 major terminals under one umbrella, significantly enhancing CMA CGM’s operational capabilities across critical global locations.
The stunning deal sees Stonepeak investing $2.4 billion for a 25% stake in United Ports, while CMA CGM retains 75% ownership and daily operational control. This strategic partnership aims to expedite funding for new terminal investments without disrupting current operations, marking a pivotal moment for U.S. maritime logistics.
The portfolio includes vital terminals such as Fenix Marine Services at the Port of Los Angeles and Port Liberty in New York, along with facilities in Santos (Brazil), Valencia and Bilbao (Spain), Nhava Sheva (India), Kaohsiung (Taiwan), and Gemalink (Vietnam). This consolidation is set to streamline operations and enhance efficiency at these major gateways.
CMA CGM’s decision comes amid a broader push to elevate U.S. maritime capabilities. Earlier this year, the company revealed a monumental $20 billion plan to expand shipping and logistics capacity in the U.S., drawing significant attention from both political figures and industry stakeholders.
Regulatory approvals will play a crucial role in the timeline for this ambitious venture, with both companies targeting closure of the transaction in the second half of 2026. The approval process will include standard antitrust and foreign investment reviews, which will dictate the speed at which these terminals transition into the new structure and begin operational changes.
Looking ahead, CMA CGM plans to reinvest the $2.4 billion from this deal into expanding its core shipping and logistics operations. This financial boost is expected to enhance supply chain capacity through the partnership, offering Stonepeak opportunities for future projects that could accelerate terminal upgrades at strategic locations.
Industry analysts are closely monitoring this major development, as the creation of United Ports LLC represents a significant shift in terminal ownership that could reshape capacity at key global and U.S. ports. The focus now remains on whether this influx of private capital will translate into faster container handling and help alleviate bottlenecks at some of the world’s busiest terminals.
With this transformative initiative, CMA CGM is poised to redefine maritime logistics in the U.S., making it a critical development for shippers, port authorities, and the broader supply chain network. Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
