ZIM launches new Asis-US Gulf services in co-operation with 2M

Israeli shipping line Zim has announced two new direct services as part of its cooperation with the 2M alliance. Zim is to offer a US Gulf – central China express service, as well as a US Gulf-South China service. The line claimed the services, which cater for both Central and South China, and South Korea, offer “significant advantages for customers, including direct connections to major ports in Asia and the US Gulf; best-in-market transit time with reliable dedicated service; two weekly cut-offs in Houston and Mobile to better serve growing US exports requirements”. 

Zim’s cooperation with 2M, which lost partner HMM, now extends to four major trades, a move which could be seen as a response to HMM’s decision to leave. It could also be interpreted as an answer to Zim’s continued loss–making, by not having to invest in ships.