CMA CGM dismisses Hong Kong rumour, no plans to buy or charter new ships

MARSEILLES-based CMA CGM recently said it has "no short term plans to either purchase or long-term charter-in any vessels," according to the company statement.

The denial comes after a report in the Hong Kong Ta Kung Pao newspaper about it buying twenty 9,000- to 10,000-TEU vessels from China Shipbuilding and State Shipbuilding, allegedly to be financed by Export-Import Bank of China.


CMA CGM said the priorities of the world`s third largest carrier are to reduce debt and strengthen its financial position.


"Looking beyond 2013 and in line with its long-term commitment to driving continuous improvement in fleet efficiency, the group is looking at various charter projects with a number of shipyards and financial partners."


"While CMA CGM will pursue these non-binding discussions over the next few months, it has no intention to reach an agreement in the near future."


The carrier currently runs a fleet of 408 vessels, in which 92 are self-owned.