Hapag-Lloyd Finalizes 25% Stake in APM Terminals Maasvlakte II

Hapag-Lloyd has finalized its acquisition of a 25% stake in APM Terminals Maasvlakte II in Rotterdam, following the receipt of unconditional antitrust approval. The transaction, conducted through the carrier’s infrastructure unit, Hanseatic Global Terminals, secures a long-term interest in one of Europe’s most technologically advanced container facilities.

Strategic Hub for Gemini Cooperation

The deal is a critical infrastructure play for the upcoming Gemini Cooperation between Hapag-Lloyd and Maersk. By moving from a terminal customer to a minority shareholder, Hapag-Lloyd gains a strategic foothold in a facility that will serve as a primary transshipment hub for the alliance’s hub-and-spoke network model.

APM Terminals, a subsidiary of Maersk, will retain operational control of the facility. The terminal is currently undergoing a significant expansion project to increase berth and yard capacity through further automation. Upon completion, Maasvlakte II is expected to reach an annual handling capacity of approximately 5.4 million TEU.

The acquisition aligns with Hanseatic Global Terminals’ stated objective of building a portfolio of up to 30 terminal facilities in key global markets. Dheeraj Bhatia, CEO of Hanseatic Global Terminals, stated the partnership would support the terminal’s growth and strengthen Rotterdam’s position as a major European gateway.

Harold Kunst, Managing Director of APM Terminals Maasvlakte II, noted that the investment supports the terminal’s ongoing expansion while maintaining a focus on reliability for all customers. While the financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed, the completion of the deal ensures that both Gemini partners now have a direct vested interest in the operational success and capacity development of their shared Rotterdam hub.

Source: World Cargo News