Dalian: After China voted against the P3 alliance of the world’s largest containerlines, the industry is waiting to see what Beijing has to say on 2M, the vessel sharing agreement between Maersk and MSC. The powerful China Shipowners’ Association, which has been vocal in its opposition to both the Vale megabulkers calling China and the P3, has given its opinion on 2M to the government, saying it is vital container shipping has greater competition.
“China didn’t support the establishment of P3, it is hard to say whether the Chinese government will approve 2M or not,” Zhang Shouguo (pictured), the director of China Shipowner’s Association told SinoShip News in an exclusive interview.
“The cooperation model of 2M is different from P3,” he pointed out, before adding: “Alliances are necessary for the shipping industry to improve efficiency and services, however competition is needed.”
Maersk and MSC have received approval from US authorities to set up 2M. Some 185 ships will be included in the tie up. The proposal is still waiting for approval from China and the EU. [22/10/14]
