THE CMA CGM Group has announced a four-year program to invest US20 billion to contribute to U.S. maritime economy and support the transformation of America’s domestic supply chain.
The commitment builds on CMA CGM Group’s 35-year presence in the US, including its ownership of the US-flag carrier American President Lines “Today, the Group operates in 40 states and employs 15,000 Americans. As a leading partner in U.S. trade, CMA CGM transports over 5 million shipping containers to and from the country each year,” it said
Rodolphe Saadé, chairman and CEO, said he was proud to build on the relationship by investing in the country’s maritime future and logistics capabilities.
“Over the next four years, we will significantly grow our U.S.-flagged fleet, expand the capacity of key container ports on both coasts, develop state-of-the-art warehousing across the country, and establish a significant air cargo hub in Chicago. This will create 10,000 new American jobs and further strengthen our partnership with American customers and public authorities,” Mr Saadé said.
Amongst the pledges:
· CMA CGM Group will contribute to the development of American maritime capabilities through a range of targeted investments. It advances the US Administration’s recently-announced priority to strengthen American shipbuilding capabilities. This includes bolstering APL’s US flag capacity and enhancing maritime resources with new jobs, skills, and technologies. These commitments will reinforce APL’s position as the leading carrier for US government cargo transportation, while also ensuring the safe, open, and reliable access to the oceans necessary to promote America’s economic and national security ambition.
· The Group will also develop port infrastructure in key locations across the US, including New York, Los Angeles, Dutch Harbor, Houston, and Miami. These investments will contribute to efficient operations and supply chains, accelerated digitization and improved connectivity, and increased safety for port workers and cargo.
· CMA CGM Group will be opening state-of-the-art warehouses and automotive logistics platform. This investment will improve US logistics and supply chain infrastructure through the development of state-of-the-art warehousing and automotive logistics platforms across the country. These contributions will help ensure the security and reliability of the domestic supply chain, while also advancing U.S. leadership in logistics.
· Creating an air cargo hub in Chicago: As part of this investment, CMA CGM Group will also expand American air cargo capacity. Anchored by a new hub in Chicago, the Group will deploy five new Boeing 777 freighters, operated by American pilots, to strengthen US. trade and connectivity and ensure the reliable transport of critical and time-sensitive goods.
· Accelerating R&D investment and innovation in logistics: To remain at the forefront of innovation, CMA CGM will open a new logistics R&D hub in Boston, focusing on advanced robotics and automation solutions. Developed in collaboration with leading American technology partners, this innovation hub will optimize logistics services to ensure the best service quality for our American customers.
