Hapag-Lloyd and Israeli carrier ZIM Integrated Shipping Services have signed a definitive merger agreement that can reshape the global container shipping landscape.
The agreement, announced on 16 February 2026 by Hapag-Lloyd, provides for the German liner to acquire 100 per cent of ZIM’s shares at $35.00 per share in cash, valuing the transaction at over $4 billion.
The deal remains subject to approval by ZIM shareholders, regulatory authorities and the State of Israel in relation to its special rights provisions.
Under the terms of the merger, Hapag-Lloyd will undertake the acquisition through a merger involving an Israeli subsidiary and ZIM, which will continue to exist as a wholly-owned unit of Hapag-Lloyd on completion.
A unique feature of the transaction is the planned transfer of the special state share – a so-called golden share held by the State of Israel – to a newly created Israeli container line owned by FIMI Opportunity Funds.
FIMI is set to take ownership of a carved-out liner business with 16 vessels and will assume responsibility for obligations attached to the golden share and the ZIM brand.
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The combined business would elevate Hapag-Lloyd to the fifth-largest container shipping company worldwide. The enlarged group will control a modern fleet of over 400 vessels with a standing capacity exceeding 3 million TEUs and annual throughput in excess of 18 million TEUs.
“ZIM is an excellent partner for Hapag-Lloyd”, said Rolf Habben Jansen, CEO of Hapag-Lloyd.
“Customers will benefit from a significantly strengthened network on the Transpacific, Intra Asia, Atlantic, Latin America and East Mediterranean. We share the same ambitions: great customer service, outstanding operational quality, and a commitment to digital innovation – all powered by the expertise and passion of our people worldwide.
“We will use this opportunity to create the best team from the exceptional talent in ZIM and Hapag-Lloyd – in Israel and around the globe – and we commit ourselves to build a very substantial and long-term presence in Israel. Together, we will set new benchmarks of excellence and secure our position as the undisputed number one for quality in our industry.”
Until the closing of the transaction, Hapag-Lloyd and ZIM will remain competitors and do “business as usual”. Their operational collaboration will stay limited to existing vessel sharing and slot charter agreements.
The necessary approvals of regulatory authorities and ZIM shareholders are expected by late 2026.
For more information:
Hapag-Lloyd – https://www.hapag-lloyd.com/en/home.html
ZIM – https://www.zim.com/
