Israel's Government Companies Authority (GCA) has raised concerns over Hapag-Lloyd's proposed US$4.2 billion takeover of Zim, warning the deal may conflict with the state's Golden Share, reported Oslo's Trade Winds.

The position paper drafted by the GCA argues that dividing Zim's business between Hapag-Lloyd and Israel's FIMI Opportunities Fund could breach obligations under the Golden Share.

The Golden Share grants the Israeli state veto powers over major structural changes at Zim, raising doubts over whether the takeover will secure regulatory approval.

Under the proposed arrangement, Hapag-Lloyd would absorb Zim's global operations, while FIMI would take a separate stake, prompting scrutiny from regulators.