German container carrier Hapag-Lloyd has officially confirmed that it is engaged in negotiations to acquire all shares of ZIM Integrated Shipping Services. The company stated that the talks are at an advanced stage, although no binding agreements have been signed so far.
Media reports about a potential transaction first emerged in early December 2025, but both companies declined to comment at that time.
In a statement released on February 15, Hapag-Lloyd confirmed that negotiations are ongoing and noted that any potential deal would require approval from the company’s management and supervisory boards. In addition, the transaction would require the consent of the State of Israel, based on special rights granted under ZIM’s corporate charter.
Hapag-Lloyd also said that discussions with FIMI Opportunity Funds regarding commitments linked to those special rights are at an advanced stage.
Completion of the transaction would further depend on obtaining regulatory approvals as well as shareholder approval from ZIM.
If completed, the deal could represent one of the most significant consolidation moves in the global container shipping sector, potentially strengthening Hapag-Lloyd’s position on key international trade lanes.
