CMA CGM is enhancing its Vietnam-US trade lane with the introduction of the new Mekong Transpacific Express (MTE) service. This strategic initiative will see the existing Java Sea Express (JAX) service reconfigured into a weekly transpacific loop, prioritizing direct connectivity between Vietnam and the US West Coast.

The MTE service will offer direct calls from Haiphong and Vung Tau to the US West Coast, operated by CMA CGM. The company highlighted that this new network is designed to improve transit times, enhance schedule reliability, and facilitate better inland connectivity through Los Angeles.

For cargo originating in Southern Vietnam, CMA CGM will continue to utilize barge connections between Ho Chi Minh City and the Gemalink Container Terminal. Furthermore, the ongoing Phase 2 expansion at Gemalink, slated for completion by 2027, is expected to significantly increase terminal capacity from 1.7 million TEUs to 3 million TEUs. The MTE service will also support cargo from Cambodia via GIL-operated barge services connecting Phnom Penh with Cai Mep.

In the United States, the MTE service will call at Fenix Marine Services, providing direct access to on-dock rail services and CMA CGM’s SEAPRIORITY logistics solutions. The inaugural voyage is scheduled to commence on May 28th, aboard the vessel APL DANUBE.

CMA CGM confirmed that customers who previously utilized the JAX service from Singapore, Port Klang, and Laem Chabang will be seamlessly transitioned to alternative services within the company’s extensive regional network.

Amelie Humphreys, Managing Director of CMA CGM Vietnam, stated, “The launch of the Mekong Transpacific Express is more than a service enhancement; it is a clear signal of our long-term commitment to Vietnam.” CMA CGM has been a presence in Vietnam since 1989 and currently operates 29 weekly services connecting seven Vietnamese ports.

CMA CGM launches Mekong Transpacific Express between Vietnam and US West Coast