Shipping group CMA CGM to open direct route linking Japan and Europe

Global No. 3 container ship operator expands service as falling rates hit revenue

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A CMA CGM container ship enters New York Harbor in 2021. Freight rates have fallen since the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting companies to open new routes. © Reuters

TOMONORI WASHIDA

TOKYO — France’s CMA CGM, the world’s third-largest container shipping company, will launch its first route connecting Japan and Europe in April, after competitor Ocean Network Express decided to discontinue direct Japan-Europe service.