CMA CGM and Stonepeak formed United Ports LLC, a $10 billion joint venture focused on U.S. terminal expansion and global port operations. Stonepeak invests $2.4 billion for a 25% minority stake, while CMA CGM contributes 10 terminals and retains 75% ownership with operational control. The venture prioritizes growth at key U.S. gateways, such as Los Angeles/Long Beach and NY/NJ.
Deal Structure Details
Stonepeak’s $2.4 billion investment secures its stake, with up to $3.6 billion allocated for future projects. CMA CGM plans to use the proceeds to fund growth in shipping and logistics. The deal, announced on January 28, 2026, awaits regulatory approval and is expected to close in the second half of 2026.
Reuters, Maritime Magazine, and MarineLink confirm the $10 billion portfolio valuation for these trade assets.
Terminals in Portfolio
United Ports LLC manages 10 CMA CGM terminals across six countries, with a focus on U.S. expansion.
| Fenix Marine Services (FMS) | Los Angeles/Long Beach | USAhttps://www.reuters.com/legal/transactional/shipping-group-cma-cgm-form-port-joint-venture-with-stonepeak-2026-01-28/ |
| Port Liberty | Bayonne, New Jersey (NY/NJ) | USAhttps://www.reuters.com/legal/transactional/shipping-group-cma-cgm-form-port-joint-venture-with-stonepeak-2026-01-28/ |
| Santos | Santos | Brazil |
| CSP Valencia, CSP Bilbao, TTI Algeciras, Terminal Maritima del Guadalquivir | Various | Spain |
| Nhava Sheva Freeport | Nhava Sheva | India |
| CMA CGM Kaohsiung | Kaohsiung | Taiwan |
| Gemalink | Cai Mep | Vietnam |
These facilities processed strong container volumes in 2025, strengthening supply chains.
U.S. Terminal Expansion Focus
The venture supports CMA CGM’s $20 billion U.S. investment plans, enhancing capacity on both coasts. Key assets, including Fenix Marine Services and Port Liberty, set the stage for upgrades. Stonepeak, with $80 billion in infrastructure, views terminals as essential, hard-to-replace assets.
Leadership Views
Rodolphe Saadé, CMA CGM Chairman and CEO, called it a key step for terminal investments and market access. Stonepeak’s James Wyper, Senior Managing Director, highlighted the unique partnership with a major shipper.
Market Impact and Analysis
This $10 billion deal highlights private equity’s push into maritime logistics amid shifting trade. For U.S. construction and real estate, it forecasts terminal upgrades and job growth in gateway cities.
Stonepeak’s 25% stake as a low-risk entry leveraging CMA CGM’s expertise, offering a model for Gulf players like Dubai Ports World to attract equity for logistics hubs. It could speed construction innovations like automation and green expansion, avoiding public funding delays. Regulatory reviews may slow U.S. terminal gains, but the portfolio’s scale ensures long-term benefits.
Image Credit – logistics-manager.com
