German shipping company Hapag-Lloyd has outlined further details of its revised proposal to acquire Israeli container carrier ZIM Integrated Shipping Services, seeking to address concerns over Israel’s maritime security, shipping connectivity and strategic independence.
The proposal, developed jointly with Israeli private equity firm FIMI Opportunity Funds, aims to strengthen ZIM’s future Israeli operations while allowing Hapag-Lloyd to proceed with the planned acquisition. The deal, announced in February 2026, is valued at approximately US$4.2 billion, equivalent to US$35 per share.
Under the revised framework, FIMI would take control of a separate Israeli shipping business, provisionally called ZIM Israel, while Hapag-Lloyd would acquire ZIM’s international business. The Israeli company would retain responsibility for the government’s special state share, commonly known as the “golden share,” which protects Israel’s strategic interests in the carrier.
Key measures include establishing an additional direct shipping route connecting Israel with Asia, strengthening state safeguards over ownership and operations, and maintaining maritime expertise and professional capabilities in Israel. The proposal also includes investment in Israeli seafarers and a dedicated fleet intended to preserve the country’s access to international shipping routes.
Hapag-Lloyd Chief Executive Officer Rolf Habben Jansen said the improvements were designed to address the Israeli government’s security requirements and strengthen the country’s maritime independence.
However, the acquisition remains subject to regulatory approval. Israel’s Government Companies Authority halted its review of the original transaction structure after the required revised operational proposal was not submitted by its deadline. The companies will need to present the updated framework for a fresh assessment.
The proposed acquisition could strengthen Hapag-Lloyd’s global container network, while the revised structure seeks to preserve Israel’s direct maritime links and strategic shipping capacity. The final outcome will depend on the revised proposal and the Israeli authorities’ assessment of whether it adequately protects national interests.