As freight shippers throughout Europe face stiff competition, overcapacity and falling prices, many are looking to consolidate through alliances and mergers. It’s a trend not always allowed by antitrust regulators, however. According to reports, half of Germany’s shipping companies are looking to strike alliances with each other or to strength alliances already made. Among the cooperation is the market’s three leading shipping companies: Maersk Line, a unit of the Danish Maersk Group; the Swiss MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company, and the French CMA CGM. The three entered into an agreement to share vessels to overcome the market’s current obstacles. But it’s a cooperation that some analysts say may be struck down by antitrust regulators, especially if the three agree on shipping rates.
Full Content: Reuters
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