- Following Hapag-Lloyd’s surprising exit from THE Alliance, the remaining partners assert their dedication to a strong collaboration through 2024.
- The joint statement aims to reassure customers and stakeholders amid uncertainties surrounding the future of THE Alliance after January 2025.
- Hapag-Lloyd and Maersk’s announcement about the formation of the Gemini Cooperation has sparked speculation about the fate of THEA, prompting the alliance members to address the concerns.
In response to Hapag-Lloyd’s unexpected departure from THE Alliance last week, the remaining partners have issued a joint statement reaffirming their “unwavering commitment to maintaining a robust cooperation throughout 2024.” The declaration, which includes Hapag-Lloyd, seeks to pacify customers and stakeholders amid growing speculations about the future of the alliance.
Speculation and Assessments
The decision by Hapag-Lloyd and Maersk to establish the Gemini Cooperation on major east-west tradelanes from February 2025 has triggered intense speculation regarding THE Alliance’s future. Industry experts and consultants, including Alphaliner, have assessed the options for THEA’s remaining members and indicated that they are “quite limited.”
Potential Scenarios for THEA’s Future
Despite Hapag-Lloyd being considered the ‘lead line,’ THEA’s main tonnage provider is ONE, contributing 38.7% of the alliance’s capacity. With Hapag-Lloyd’s departure, potential scenarios include the continuation of THEA with three carriers, which could weaken its position on the transatlantic route. Meanwhile, Taiwan’s Wan Hai emerges as a top contender to join THE Alliance, given its existing cooperation with Hapag-Lloyd on an Asia-US east coast loop.
Ocean Alliance as an Alternative?
Another possible scenario involves an Ocean Alliance partner joining THEA. However, Alphaliner deems this move “purely speculative” for now. The consultant notes that THEA members joining the Ocean Alliance is “unlikely” due to the latter’s significant market share in the Asia-Europe and transpacific trades.
As industry stakeholders eagerly await further developments, the fate of THE Alliance remains uncertain, with potential shifts in partnerships and alliances reshaping the landscape of major shipping routes.
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Source: The Loadstar
