CMA CGM, the world's second-largest container shipping group, is weathering global trade tensions and port fees with steady growth and major investments, including a US$20 billion commitment to the US maritime and logistics sectors, reports London's Riviera Maritime Media.

The Marseille-based liner has expanded its fleet to 5.42 million TEU, trailing only MSC's 5.98 million TEU, and overtaking Maersk. Its growth includes dual-fuelled newbuilds and second-hand acquisitions.

In Q2 2025, chairman and chief executive Rodolphe Saade led the group through a series of initiatives, notably a $20 billion investment in the US. CMA CGM already employs 15,000 people in the country and moves more government cargo than any other logistics firm.

The investment will expand the US-flagged fleet, increase port capacity on both coasts, build nationwide warehouses, and establish an air cargo hub in Chicago. The company owns American President Lines, which supports US defence logistics.

Ports targeted for upgrades include New York, Los Angeles, Dutch Harbor, Houston and Miami. Chicago airport will host five new Boeing 777 freighters operated by American pilots.

Despite global instability, CMA CGM continued investing in Q2, including a $2.6 billion order for 12 LNG-fuelled 18,000-TEU ships. Other moves included a logistics operation in Lyon, a deep-water terminal in Hai Phong, a stake in Egypt's October platform, and control of Santo Brasil.

The group is also preparing its 23,000-TEU fleet for e-methane with bow shields, aiming for emissions-free operations by 2050.

Diversification has helped CMA CGM manage tariff shocks. Mr Saade said the strategy across terminals, logistics and air freight enabled rapid global solutions.

Financially, Q2 2025 saw revenue rise 0.3 per cent to US$13.16 billion, while ebitda fell eight per cent to $2.8 billion amid geopolitical strife and regional warfare.

Logistics revenue reached $4.6 billion with ebitda up two per cent to US$459 million, driven by strong contracted logistics. Margins neared 10 per cent.

Revenue from other activities, including port terminals, air cargo and CMA Media, surged 63 per cent to US$1 billion. Ebitda rose nearly fivefold to US$240 million, with a margin of 23 per cent.