COSCO Shipping is intensifying its presence in the Far East–Middle East/India trade corridor , launching a new Southeast Asia–India (SE1) service and seeking a partner carrier to bolster its regional network. This strategic move comes as the shipping industry grapples with a global freight rate war, particularly between Asia and Europe.
As of July 2025, COSCO Shipping Lines held a dominant position in the Far East–Indian Subcontinent/Middle East/Red Sea trade, commanding approximately 13% of the market share with 250,000 TEU of capacity deployed. The company operates the MEA5 service, part of the OCEAN Alliance network, utilizing five ‘Megamax’ vessels averaging 19,000 TEU each.
Despite its leading position, COSCO faces challenges amid a volatile geopolitical environment and tightening foreign investment regulations in many countries. The company is focusing on development opportunities in emerging and regional markets, including Southeast Asia, South America, Africa, and the Middle East, to navigate these obstacles.
The launch of the SE1 service underscores COSCO’s commitment to expanding its network and maintaining competitiveness in a challenging market. The company is actively seeking a partner carrier to enhance its regional offerings and strengthen its position in the Far East–Middle East/India trade corridor.
As the freight rate war continues to impact the shipping industry, COSCO’s strategic expansions and partnerships will be pivotal in determining its ability to sustain growth and profitability in the evolving global trade landscape.
