French container shipping major CMA CGM has unveiled a new shipping service connecting Vietnam with the United States West Coast, further strengthening transpacific trade links amid rising export demand from Southeast Asia. The new Mekong Transpacific Express (MTE) service is aimed at improving cargo connectivity, transit reliability and supply chain efficiency for shippers moving goods between the two regions.
The weekly MTE service will provide direct calls from key Vietnamese ports to major US West Coast gateways, replacing the carrier’s existing Java Sea Express (JAX) service. CMA CGM said the new route has been designed to support growing manufacturing activity and export volumes from Vietnam and neighbouring Mekong economies.
Under the revised network, the service will connect Haiphong and Vung Tau with Los Angeles and Oakland through a dedicated transpacific loop. The port rotation will include Haiphong, Vung Tau, Shanghai, Los Angeles, Oakland and Kaohsiung. The maiden voyage is scheduled to commence on 28 May with the vessel APL DANUBE.
The carrier noted that the service will also strengthen inland logistics solutions in both Asia and North America. Cargo from southern Vietnam will continue moving through barge services connecting Ho Chi Minh City with the Gemalink Container Terminal, while Cambodian shipments will be linked through Phnom Penh–Cai Mep barge connections. In the United States, cargo distribution will be supported through CMA CGM’s rail and inland transport network from Los Angeles.
Industry observers say shipping lines are increasingly expanding Vietnam-focused services as global manufacturers diversify sourcing and production away from China. Vietnam has emerged as one of Asia’s fastest-growing export hubs in recent years, driving stronger demand for direct container shipping services to North America.