Chinese government officials and trade organisation China Shipowners’ Association (CSA) have expressed concern over the 2M alliance between Maersk Line and Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC).
According to Seastrade Global, Shang Ming from China’s Ministry of Commerce said in a local media interview that the 2M shipping alliance could affect Chinese import and export companies, and lead a rise in the costs of consumer goods.
Executive vice-chairman of CSA, Zhang Shouguo, said the alliance would challenge the competitiveness of Chinese shipping lines, stating that while seven of the world’s ten busiest ports were located in China, Chinese shipping companies only accounted for around one-third of the market.
The ten-year 2M alliance was announced on 10 July, less than a month after the P3 shipping alliance between Maersk, CMA CGM and MSC was rejected by China in June on the grounds it would restrict competition.
