The intra-Mediterranean market remains highly concentrated in the hands of large global carriers hold approximately 70% of total capacity in the region

.In 2025, the market for scheduled container transport services within the Mediterranean basin recorded a slight contraction in overall capacity of 2.7% compared to a year earlier, equivalent to nearly 15,000 fewer TEUs in service in the region. This reflects a combination of vessel reallocations to other trades and the deployment of smaller vessels by some regional operators.

CMA CGM : The fastest pace of expansion 

In this context, according to data from the maritime transport consultancy Alphaliner, CMA CGM has distinguished itself with the fastest pace of expansion among the large regional carriers. Over the past twelve months, the French group has increased its intra-Mediterranean capacity by approximately 26%, from 98,800 TEUs to approximately 124,300 TEUs of hold capacity in service, and increased its market share from 17.9% to 23.1%, consolidating its second-place position among the largest operators in the Mediterranean.

CMA CGM's expansion is also reflected in the number of vessels deployed on intraregional services: today, 77 container ships operate in the Mediterranean under the French brand, 18 more than at the end of 2024. This expansion of the dedicated fleet indicates an increase in slots and frequencies, with a presence almost equal to that of its main competitor on short-haul routes

The intra-Mediterranean market remains firmly in the hands of MSC

Despite CMA CGM's acceleration, leadership in the intra-Mediterranean market remains firmly in the hands of MSC. The Italian-Swiss MSC Mediterranean Shipping Co still holds the top spot among the largest intra-Med operators by deployed capacity. saw its capacity share increase from 25.2% to 26.6% over the year and added four new services, including intra-Adriatic circuits and an east-west Mediterranean connection, strengthening its regional network.

 Maersk also recorded significant progress, 

 Whereas Maersk also recorded significant progress, with a capacity increase of approximately 10.6% compared to 2024. This result was supported by the introduction of four new Gemini series megabuques, which brought approximately 21,500 TEUs of new capacity to the region and allowed the Danish company to firmly establish itself among the top three intra-Mediterranean carriers. 

 Cosco Shipping Lines showed the opposite trend,

Among other players, Cosco Shipping Lines showed the opposite trend, with a slight reduction in capacity share, falling from 5.1% to 4.6% over the past year. This decline highlights how not all Asian operators are maintaining the same pace of growth on regional routes.

The MLOs extended their lead in the Mediterranean segment

 The MLOs extended their lead in the Mediterranean segment, with a combined market share of 70% (+5%), leaving 30% for the regional carriers and the common feeder operators.

Overall, the intra-Mediterranean market remains highly concentrated in the hands of large global carriers. Major carriers currently hold approximately 70% of total capacity in the region, a five-percent increase from 2024, reducing the competitive space for smaller regional lines and feeder operators

 Dynamics mark a significant evolution in Mediterranean cabotage

For port operators, freight forwarders, and terminal operators, these dynamics mark a significant evolution in Mediterranean cabotage. CMA CGM's strategy, which aims to increase capacity and frequencies within the basin, contrasts with the more conservative approaches adopted by other carriers and could translate into competitive pressures on service levels and short-term freight rates.

In a market where major global carriers continue to expand their fleets and overall capacity, CMA CGM's growth in the Mediterranean signals how some operators are rethinking asset allocation in response to shifts in regional demand and competitive pressures on traditional routes.

Related : CMA CGM has already scheduled the imminent return to navigation via Suez Canal

Source : Other sources 

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