Wedoany.com Report on Mar 7th, France's CMA CGM Group recently stated that after a robust performance in 2025, container shipping demand is expected to slow this year, with uncertainties in the Middle East casting a shadow over freight rate prospects. The world's third-largest container shipping company reported a core EBITDA of $10.57 billion for 2025, a year-on-year decrease of 21.4%, mainly due to increased global shipping capacity putting pressure on freight rates.

Similar to other shipping companies, CMA CGM is navigating the impact of the evolving situation in the Middle East. The company noted in a performance statement: "Container shipping is expected to achieve moderate growth in 2026. Developments in the Middle East, particularly in the Red Sea, will be key factors affecting market balance and freight rate trends." Previously, Red Sea navigation had been disrupted by regional conflicts, and the recent escalation has led CMA CGM to suspend Red Sea voyages, halt bookings for Gulf ports, and moor ships already in the Gulf.

Currently, CMA CGM has 14 vessels waiting in the Gulf, northwest of the Strait of Hormuz. To cope with maritime volatility, the company has diversified into logistics, port terminals, and non-shipping activities. Industry analysis indicates that shipping activity in 2025 was partly driven by advanced shipments, while a slowdown in demand is widely anticipated this year, with the Middle East situation being a key variable.