As every link in global supply chains faces mounting pressure to improve efficiency, port terminals—the critical junctions connecting maritime and land transportation—are seeing their strategic value grow exponentially. French shipping giant CMA CGM is making a bold move to solidify its position in global port operations through a major capital partnership.
On January 28, CMA CGM and U.S. private equity firm Stonepeak announced an agreement to establish a new joint venture called "UNITED Port LLC," valued at approximately $10 billion. The entity will focus on global port terminal investments and operations.
Strategic Global Footprint
The contributed terminal portfolio represents key maritime gateways across four continents:
North America: FMS Terminal at Los Angeles Port; Port Liberty Terminal at New York-New Jersey Port
South America: Santos Port Terminal in Brazil
Europe: Valencia CSP Terminal, Bilbao CSP Terminal, Guadalquivir Maritime Terminal, Algeciras TTI Terminal in Spain
Asia: Nhava Sheva Freeport Terminal in India; Kaohsiung CMA Terminal in Taiwan; Gemalink Terminal at Cai Mep Port in Vietnam
Operational Structure and Future Growth
Under the agreement, CMA CGM will retain full operational control of all 10 terminals, ensuring business continuity. Stonepeak's $2.4 billion investment will be channeled into CMA CGM's core operations to enhance its maritime, land, air, and integrated logistics capabilities.
The partners have established a framework for future collaboration, with UNITED Port LLC having rights to jointly develop new terminal projects in the U.S. and other markets. Stonepeak retains an option to invest up to an additional $3.6 billion in these future projects.
The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2026, pending regulatory approvals. Upon completion, UNITED Port LLC is positioned to become a significant force in global port operations, potentially driving meaningful improvements in international trade efficiency.