Maersk strengthens its position in the Asian intra-container market by enhancing cooperation with COSCO in 2025

In the 37th week of 2025, Maersk announced its leading position in the volume of intra-container transportation in Asia, significantly narrowing the gap with market leader COSCO. This was made possible by expanding regional transportation and strengthening partnerships aimed at the dynamic development of container shipping in the region and integration with domestic maritime transport, relying on modern contractual logic and advanced digitalization.

Over the past year, Maersk has increased its operational slots on intra-Asian routes by approximately 100,000 TEU, bringing the total regional volume to 298,134 TEU, while COSCO's volume stands at 300,491 TEU, according to an analytical report by Alphaliner in August 2025.

Maersk's growth is closely linked to the formation of Gemini Cooperation, which strengthens positions through the application of a hub-and-spoke model and the expansion of regional express services. Such cooperation also strengthens Hapag-Lloyd's position and supports high competition in the Asian market.

Among the key changes in the market and in the strategic alliance is the end of the 2M alliance between Maersk and MSC in early 2025, resulting in MSC moving to independent operations, while Maersk intensified its interaction with COSCO and other key players in the Ocean Alliance until March 2032.

COSCO, as a leading operator, continues to expand its services, including the launch of new routes focusing on the northwest part of North America and the Atlantic. This contrasts with Maersk's dynamic actions to strengthen its position in the intra-Asian segment and adapt to the changing logistics environment.

Against the backdrop of increasing container shipping offerings in Asia, freight rates, according to the Drewry index, have slightly decreased—by 2% in the second half of August, averaging around $582 for a 40-foot container, which is still 35% lower than the figures from 2024.

The development of cooperation between Maersk and COSCO confirms the importance of resource consolidation and digital transformation of logistics for competitiveness in the world's largest cargo market.