French shipping giant CMA CGM has reaffirmed its commitment to the Ocean Alliance despite growing strains within the grouping over rising port fees in the United States.
Industry sources said that escalating terminal handling charges and congestion surcharges imposed at major US gateways, particularly on the West Coast, have triggered differences among alliance members over cost-sharing arrangements and service deployment.
While some partners have pushed for recalibration of service loops to reduce exposure to costly US ports, CMA CGM has opted to stay the course, maintaining its sailing schedules and customer commitments. The carrier believes stability in network operations is critical to retaining shippers’ trust at a time of heightened trade uncertainty.
The Ocean Alliance — comprising CMA CGM, COSCO Shipping, Evergreen Line and Orient Overseas Container Line (OOCL) — is one of the largest vessel-sharing partnerships in global liner shipping, covering key east–west trades. However, analysts warn that diverging strategies on handling surging US port fees could test the cohesion of the pact, particularly as margins tighten and demand remains uneven.
“Cost pressures at US ports have become a flashpoint, and it will be a challenge to keep all members aligned,” said a senior maritime analyst. “CMA CGM’s decision signals a focus on reliability over cost-cutting, but whether others follow suit is uncertain.”
For now, CMA CGM has indicated it will absorb part of the increased costs while engaging in dialogue with alliance partners to ensure operational consistency. Market watchers say the coming months will reveal whether the Ocean Alliance can navigate the financial strains without fragmenting its network.