Container shipping major CMA CGM will restructure its West Africa Express (WAX) service into three separate loops with the introduction of WAX1 and WAX2, effective from late March, as part of efforts to improve service reliability and network coverage in the region.
The reorganisation will see the existing West Africa Express split to better match cargo flows and port pair demand between Asia, the Indian Subcontinent and West Africa. By operating three dedicated loops, CMA CGM aims to offer more stable schedules, enhanced frequency, and improved transit times for key West African markets.
According to the carrier, the new structure will also help optimise vessel deployment and reduce congestion-related disruptions at busy regional ports. The additional loops are expected to strengthen connectivity to major hubs while offering shippers greater flexibility and consistency in sailing options.
West Africa remains a strategic growth market for CMA CGM, driven by rising consumer demand, infrastructure investments and increasing containerised trade volumes. The service revamp aligns with the group’s broader strategy of fine-tuning its liner network to respond to changing trade patterns and operational challenges.
Further details on port rotations and vessel deployment under WAX, WAX1 and WAX2 are expected to be announced closer to the launch date.