CMA CGM Group, a global leader in maritime, land, air, and logistics solutions and the owner of U.S. flag carrier American President Lines (APL), has announced a landmark US$20-billion investment aimed at bolstering the U.S. maritime economy and transforming the domestic supply chain over the next four years.
This strategic commitment underscores CMA CGM Group’s enduring 35-year presence in the United States, where it operates in 40 states and employs 15,000 Americans. As a critical partner in U.S. trade, the Group facilitates the movement of more than 5 million containers to and from the U.S. annually.
Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and CEO of CMA CGM Group, expressed his pride in the company’s long standing partnership with the U.S., stating: “We are committed to strengthening our relationship with the United States through this $20 billion investment in the country’s maritime and logistics future. Over the next four years, we will significantly expand our U.S.-flagged fleet, enhance key container ports on both coasts, build cutting-edge warehousing across the country, and create a major air cargo hub in Chicago. This will result in 10,000 new American jobs and further solidify our partnership with U.S. customers and public authorities.”
Fostering U.S. Shipbuilding and Maritime Workforce
A central aspect of this investment is the enhancement of U.S. maritime capabilities, aligning with the U.S. Administration’s goals to strengthen domestic shipbuilding. As part of this initiative, CMA CGM Group will grow APL’s U.S.-flagged fleet and invest in maritime resources, creating new jobs, expanding skills, and deploying advanced technologies. These efforts will reinforce APL’s position as the primary carrier for U.S. government cargo and ensure secure, open access to U.S. ports, supporting both economic and national security objectives.
Expanding Key Container Ports on the East and West Coasts
CMA CGM will also focus on improving port infrastructure at critical locations nationwide, including New York, Los Angeles, Dutch Harbor, Houston, and Miami. These enhancements will optimize supply chain efficiency, accelerate digitization, improve connectivity, and boost safety for port workers and cargo.
Developing State-of-the-Art Warehousing and Automotive Logistics Platforms
The investment will also bolster the U.S. logistics network through the creation of state-of-the-art warehouses and automotive logistics platforms across the country. These facilities will contribute to a more resilient and secure domestic supply chain while enhancing U.S. leadership in logistics capabilities.
Establishing a Major Air Cargo Hub in Chicago
A key component of this initiative includes expanding U.S. air cargo capacity with the establishment of a major new hub in Chicago. This will be complemented by the deployment of five Boeing 777 freighters, operated by American pilots, to strengthen trade flows and improve the transportation of critical, time-sensitive goods.
Driving Innovation with New R&D Investments in Logistics
To stay at the cutting edge of logistics innovation, CMA CGM will open a new research and development hub in Boston. This facility will focus on advanced robotics and automation technologies developed in collaboration with leading American tech partners. The R&D center will optimize logistics services and ensure the highest level of service quality for American customers.
Through these investments, CMA CGM Group is not only reinforcing its longstanding commitment to the U.S. economy but also contributing to the modernization of the country’s maritime, logistics, and supply chain infrastructure. This bold vision will create thousands of jobs, enhance the efficiency of U.S. trade, and elevate the nation’s position as a global logistics leader.
