Wedoany.com Report-Apr. 8, CMA CGM, a prominent French company in container shipping and logistics, has launched a five-year strategic collaboration with Mistral AI, a French artificial intelligence startup. The partnership, backed by a €100 million investment, aims to transform the shipping, logistics, and media industries through advanced AI solutions. This move represents a key step in CMA CGM’s plan to embed AI across its operations.

Under the agreement, Mistral AI specialists will work from CMA CGM’s headquarters in Marseille and Grand Central, the base of CMA Media. These experts will team up with CMA CGM’s internal staff to develop and implement AI technologies. Their efforts will focus on enhancing shipping and logistics processes while exploring innovative media applications. Two dedicated teams will drive the initiative: one, dubbed Mistral AI Factory, will combine Mistral AI and CMA CGM personnel to speed up AI integration, improving customer experiences with tools like automated claims handling, smart e-commerce systems, and efficient document management.

The collaboration will also strengthen TANGRAM, CMA CGM’s hub for learning and innovation, by upgrading its AI training programs. This will equip employees across the group to use these technologies effectively. Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and CEO of CMA CGM Group, stated: “This partnership with Mistral AI marks a decisive step in the transformation of CMA CGM through artificial intelligence. Together, we will develop tailored solutions to reinvent our businesses, from maritime transport to logistics and media, with tangible benefits for our customers and our employees.”

Arthur Mensch, CEO of Mistral AI, added: “CMA CGM’s commitment to transforming all its activities through generative AI underscores both the Group’s ambition and strategic vision. Our partnership is intended to serve as a model for how AI can be structurally embedded within organizations to enhance Europe’s competitive edge.” Mistral AI, which raised its initial funding in June 2023 with CMA CGM as an early investor, aims to bolster France’s role in AI-driven innovation alongside its partner.

The alliance focuses on accelerating the use of generative AI across CMA CGM’s operations. This technology, building on large language models, enables more autonomous systems and natural interactions, streamlining routine tasks and boosting productivity. The partnership aligns with CMA CGM’s broader AI strategy, supported by a €500 million investment and ties with firms like Google and Dataiku. It also reflects the group’s support for Kyutai, a nonprofit AI research lab co-founded by Saadé in 2023, highlighting its commitment to advancing technology responsibly.