In the first half of 2025, Hapag-Lloyd demonstrated impressive results, managing to succeed despite the worldwide challenges confronting the maritime shipping industry.
In the first half of 2025, German container shipping company Hapag-Lloyd reported robust results, demonstrating resilience in the face of volatile trade conditions, port congestion, security risks, and impacts from U.S.-China tariffs.
The Liner Shipping segment handled 6.7 million TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units), marking an 11% increase from the previous year. This growth was accompanied by a rise in revenues to approximately US$10.4 billion. The company's Group EBITDA reached US$1.9 billion, with a profit of US$0.8 billion.
Key operational challenges included volatile demand and freight rates due to frequent changes in U.S. trade policies, port congestion and operational issues at major seaports, security tensions in the Red Sea, and inflationary pressures and start-up costs related to the new Gemini network and terminal expansions.
Despite these hurdles, Hapag-Lloyd is focusing on quality, growth, and performance in the second half of 2025. The company expanded its terminal footprint by acquiring a majority stake in CNMP LH in Le Havre, France, which is expected to improve the EBITDA and EBIT of its Terminal & Infrastructure segment.
The 2025 earnings forecast was refined with Group EBITDA expected between US$2.8 and 3.8 billion and Group EBIT between US$0.25 and 1.25 billion, reflecting continued market volatility and geopolitical risks.
The Gemini network, launched in February in partnership with Maersk, achieved 90% schedule reliability on key East-West trades in its first months. Freight rates remained stable at around US$1,400 per TEU, supported by growth on major East-West routes.
CEO Rolf Habben Jansen stated that Hapag-Lloyd significantly increased its transport volume and ended the first half on a strong note. However, geopolitical tensions and volatile freight rates could impact the company's results for the rest of 2025.
In March, Hapag-Lloyd expanded its European footprint by acquiring a majority stake in CNMP LH in Le Havre, France, a move aimed at strengthening its position in the region. The company continues to navigate the complexities of the global shipping industry with strategic partnerships and infrastructure investments.
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