The concentration among shipping alliances and MSC reaches over 80 % of container capacity

New data from maritime consultancy Alphaliner reveals a stark reality in global container shipping: the vast majority of the world ' s container capacity is now controlled by a handful of powerful alliances and the independent giant, Mediterranean Shipping Company( MSC). This tightening grip signals a new era for industry dynamics.

According to updated figures from Alphaliner, carriers participating in formal shipping alliances collectively hold a commanding 82.1 % of the global container market share. While not their entire fleets are dedicated solely to alliance operations, their combined influence on major trade lanes is undeniable.

Adding to this concentration is MSC, which, despite operating independently of formal alliances, has rapidly ascended to secure a substantial 20.6 % share of global box capacity as of June 2025. Its sheer size and extensive global reach frequently place it within discussions about alliance dominance.

Alphaliner identifies the current alliance landscape as shaped by three major groupings:

• Ocean Alliance( CMA CGM, COSCO, Evergreen, OOCL): This long-standing partnership remains the largest in terms of capacity, commanding 28.4 % of the market. It continues to exert significant influence, particularly on critical East- West trade routes.

• Gemini Cooperation( Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd): The recently formed collaboration between Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd has quickly established a strong presence, securing a 21.6 % market share. This cooperation aims to deliver more streamlined and sustainable service offerings across key global trade routes.

• The Premier Alliance( ONE, HMM, Yang Ming): With a collective 11.5 % share, this alliance plays a notable role,

especially across trans-Pacific and intra-Asia routes, bolstered by recent investments in fleet modernisation and digital initiatives.

This data underscores a sharp market divide. Non-alliance carriers now account for a mere 17.9 % of global capacity, clearly illustrating the tightening control that alliance-affiliated operators wield over the world ' s most vital trade lanes.

The increasing trend towards consolidation has ignited considerable debate among shippers and regulators. While proponents argue that alliances foster operational efficiencies and enhance network stability, critics raise concerns regarding potential impacts on service

quality, the intensity of competition and the volatility of freight rates.

As major carriers continue to prioritise cooperation and scale, the concentrated market share suggests that independent players may face growing difficulties in competing effectively on the largest and most profitable global trades. The future of the container shipping industry will undoubtedly hinge on how these dominant stakeholders – the alliances and MSC – navigate the delicate balance between their commercial objectives, service reliability, and mounting environmental commitments. CLA

REFERENCE:

1. https:// alphaliner. axsmarine. com / PublicTop100 /

Philippines fast-tracks cold chain expansion

The following article by The Cooling Post says Philippines is significantly accelerating its cold chain infrastructure development, with the Department of Agriculture( DA) allocating the equivalent of USD53-million to construct approximately 99 new cold storage facilities.

This ambitious initiative, with construction commencing this year, aims to substantially extend the shelf life of fruits, vegetables and other high-value crops across the archipelago.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr emphasised the urgency of this expansion, stating, " The DA is fast-tracking its cold chain expansion through the rollout of modular and mega cold storage warehouses( CSWs) in major agricultural regions." These facilities are designed with flexibility in mind, featuring hybrid systems capable of operating on both renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, and traditional electricity from the main power grid. This dual-power approach is intended to ensure efficient and environmentally sustainable operations, particularly vital in remote or underserved agricultural areas where grid reliability might be a concern.

Laurel further elaborated on the adaptability of these new facilities. " These facilities are designed to be scalable and adaptable, with modular features that accommodate local conditions while maintaining operational efficiency and

4 integrity," he explained. The larger mega CSWs are being developed to handle substantial storage volumes, with capacities ranging from 1 700 to over 8 000 pallet positions. These larger units will serve as critical hubs within key production and distribution networks nationwide.

Beyond the cold storage warehouses themselves, the comprehensive logistics ecosystem supporting this initiative will include a range of essential infrastructure. This encompasses refrigerated vans for transport, dryers, tramlines, packaging equipment and ice plants, all designed to create a seamless cold chain from farm to market.

" We also recognise that cold storage infrastructure is only one part of the equation," Laurel acknowledged. He stressed that while the development of food hubs and agrifisheries ports are " more extensive in scope and requiring longer timelines," they remain " a critical long-term priority " for the DA.

The overarching goal of this expanded network of facilities extends beyond merely boosting storage capacity. The DA secretary highlighted that it will significantly strengthen regional aggregation, streamline distribution channels and improve market access for agricultural producers. By connecting producers directly with consumers, the initiative aims to stabilise supply chains and ultimately contribute to lowering food prices for Filipino families.

Speaking at the Cold Chain Association of the Philippines( CCAP) annual membership

meeting on June 19, Laurel underscored the vital role of industry collaboration. He called on the association for its support, emphasising that CCAP’ s technical expertise and backing were crucial in transforming this strategic infrastructure program into a tangible reality. CLA

These facilities are designed to be scalable and adaptable, with modular features that accommodate local conditions while maintaining operational efficiency and integrity.

www. coldlinkafrica. co. za COLD LINK AFRICA • September 2025

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Cold Link Africa September 2025 | Page 4

The following article by The Cooling Post says Philippines is significantly accelerating its cold chain infrastructure development, with the Department of Agriculture( DA) allocating the equivalent of USD53-million to construct approximately 99 new cold storage facilities.

The concentration among shipping alliances and MSC reaches over 80 % of container capacity

Philippines fast-tracks cold chain expansion

The following article by The Cooling Post says Philippines is significantly accelerating its cold chain infrastructure development, with the Department of Agriculture( DA) allocating the equivalent of USD53-million to construct approximately 99 new cold storage facilities.

This ambitious initiative, with construction commencing this year, aims to substantially extend the shelf life of fruits, vegetables and other high-value crops across the archipelago.

4 integrity," he explained. The larger mega CSWs are being developed to handle substantial storage volumes, with capacities ranging from 1 700 to over 8 000 pallet positions. These larger units will serve as critical hubs within key production and distribution networks nationwide.