French shipping company CMA CGM Group has announced a $20bn investment to enhance the US maritime economy and transform the nation’s supply chain infrastructure over the next four years.
The group currently operates across 40 US states and employs 15,000 Americans.
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CMA CGM’s investment is expected to support the US economy, boost American exports and generate 10,000 new jobs.
It aligns with the US Administration’s focus on strengthening American shipbuilding capabilities, including expanding the US flag fleet of American President Lines (APL) and upgrading maritime resources with new jobs, skills, and technologies.
US President Donald Trump welcomed CMA CGM’s plans and announced a US shipbuilding programme with incentives, aiming to reduce reliance on China.
His administration is also preparing a levy on China-linked ships at US ports and urging allies to follow suit, reported Reuters.
CMA CGM Group’s commitment extends to developing port infrastructure in strategic US locations such as New York, Los Angeles, Dutch Harbor, Houston, and Miami.
These enhancements are expected to lead to efficient operations and supply chains, advanced digitisation, improved connectivity, and boost safety for both port workers and cargo, according to the company.
CMA CGM Group chairman and CEO Rodolphe Saade said: “I am proud to build on our long-standing relationship with the US through this commitment of $20bn to the country’s maritime future and logistics capabilities.
“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.”
The group’s investment will also upgrade US logistics and supply chain infrastructure, with the establishment of warehousing and automotive logistics platforms nationwide.
Furthermore, CMA CGM Group is set to increase American air cargo capacity, anchored by a new hub in Chicago.
The group will introduce five new Boeing 777 freighters, operated by American pilots, to reinforce US trade and connectivity.
In addition, CMA CGM will open a new logistics research and development (R&D) hub in Boston, focusing on advanced robotics and automation solutions.
This initiative, in partnership with leading American technology firms, will optimise logistics services.
Last month, AD Ports Group and CMA CGM Group’s subsidiary CMA Terminals agreed to jointly develop and operate the New East Mole multipurpose terminal in Pointe-Noire, Republic of Congo, following AD Ports’ 30-year concession acquired in June 2023.
