Authors: Holger Grabsch and Claudia Stuhrmann

POHM: What role does the Port of Hamburg play in CMA CGM’s European network? Would you describe Hamburg as your ‘preferred hub’ for Europe – and which European destinations do you serve from here?

Mirja Nibbe: The Port of Hamburg is a central pillar of our European operations – both as a major gateway to global trade and as a strategic node that efficiently links global and regional flows of goods.

As Germany’s largest port and the third-largest container port in Northern Europe, Hamburg ensures the reliable supply of goods and materials to German industry and provides a robust connection to the major European economic regions.

Our planned 20 percent stake in the Eurogate Container Terminal Hamburg (CTH) underscores this commitment. It complements the extensive Western Extension project, which will increase terminal capacity by around 50 percent, to almost six million TEU. This will allow modern large-scale container ships to be handled even more efficiently, while significantly expanding digital and intermodal processes. In doing so, Hamburg consolidates its key role in our network and strengthens the resilience of both regional and international supply chains.

What makes Hamburg particularly attractive compared to other European ports – especially regarding hinterland connections by rail, road and inland waterways?

Hamburg stands out thanks to its high-performance intermodal infrastructure. The port offers state-ofthe- art rail, road and waterway connections, including the Eurokombi terminal as a key link for rail freight. Continuous investments in electrification ensure efficient operations and make an important contribution to reducing emissions.

Which liner services does CMA CGM currently operate via Hamburg?

Hamburg is currently served several times a week – including the flagship FAL service between Asia and Northern Europe, on which LNG-powered large vessels are deployed. In total, the group calls at Hamburg and other German North Sea ports 23 times per week.

How important is cooperation with Hamburg terminal operators for your operations? Which terminal do you work with most closely?

Cooperation with Hamburg terminal operators – particularly Eurogate – is crucial for our operational performance. Our minority stake in CTH allows us to further our interests by playing a direct role in advancing the terminal’s development and modernisation. This strengthens innovation and planning security and ensures long-term access to one of Europe’s most important throughput hubs.

From CMA CGM’s perspective, which infrastructure measures are central to ensuring Hamburg remains an attractive hub in the future?

For us, continuous modernisation, capacity expansion, ongoing digitalisation and a transition to low-emission operations are essential. Equally important are strong hinterland connections and technologically advanced terminal processes – these secure Hamburg’s leading position in the face of European competition.

CMA CGM is investing heavily in LNG ships and alternative drives. What role does Hamburg play in the implementation of your sustainability strategy?

Hamburg is an important location for our climate protection activities. The port is able to handle LNG-powered ships and is also heavily engaged in electrification projects. This allows emissions to be significantly reduced, both in shipping and port operations. Moreover, Hamburg offers excellent potential for LNG bunkering and pilot projects with alternative fuels.

Are there plans to use Hamburg more intensively for pilot projects in the areas of alternative fuels, digitalisation or port logistics?

We view Hamburg both as a gateway to the continent and as an innovation hub along the supply chain. Thanks to its modern infrastructure, proximity to industry and economy, and openness to cooperation, the city provides ideal conditions to test new technologies under real operational conditions.

"Hamburg stands

out thanks to its

high-performance

intermodal infrastructure."

Mirja Nibbe
Managing Director CMA CGM Germany

What role will Hamburg play in Europe in the future – as a gateway, an innovation hub or a hub for specific markets?

Ongoing and planned investments underline that Hamburg will continue to expand its role as an innovation platform – particularly in alternative fuels, digitalisation and modern port logistics. This aligns fully with our strategy to make supply chains more resilient, digital and sustainable.

Hamburg is one of your most important European ports. What makes the cooperation special for you – and are there experiences that have made a particular impression?

The strong spirit of partnership between the CMA CGM Group and local stakeholders is outstanding. Together, we implement pioneering expansion, digitalisation and sustainability projects. Hamburg’s transformation into a low-emission, intermodal hub demonstrates the success of this close and trusting collaboration.