CMA CGM Reshuffles Services to Fight Congestion at Mexican Ports

As of mid-2024, congestion at Mexico’s key ports has been causing significant delays, impacting the efficiency and reliability of international shipping schedules, particularly affecting services connecting Asia to Mexico and the West Coast of South America (WCSA). To address these challenges, CMA CGM has announced a strategic reshuffling of its ACSA1 and M2X services, aimed at restoring reliable schedules and offering competitive transit times.

ACSA1 Service Update. The ACSA1 service will cease calls to Manzanillo and Lazaro Cardenas, shifting its focus to Ensenada and WCSA ports. This adjustment aims to improve consistency in schedules and transit times, specifically benefiting perishable and reefer cargo shipments from Latin America to Asia.

The updated ACSA1 rotation will be effective from the departure of the vessel APL TURKEY on November 21 from Ningbo, China. The new rotation is as follows: Ningbo, China (CNNGB) - Shanghai, China (CNSHA) - Pusan, Korea (KRPUS) - Ensenada, Mexico (MXESE) - Buenaventura, Colombia (COBUN) - Callao, Peru (PECLL) - San Jose, Ecuador (ECPSJ) - Yokohama, Japan (JPYOK). The last vessel under the previous rotation calling at Manzanillo and Lazaro Cardenas is CMA CGM MARCO POLO, departing Shanghai on Nov. 7.

The M2X service, now known as the Mexico Express, will focus exclusively on Mexico’s primary ports, maintaining calls to Manzanillo and Lazaro Cardenas. This dedicated focus is set to improve direct transit times to and from these key Mexican hubs, enhancing operational efficiency in Mexico’s supply chain.

The updated M2X rotation, effective from CMA CGM ALEXANDER VON HUMBOLDT, departing Shanghai on Nov. 16, will be: Shanghai (CNSHK) - Ningbo (CNNGB) - Shenzhen (CNSHA) - Qingdao (CNTAO) - Xiamen (CNTXG) - Pusan (KRPUS) - Lazaro Cardenas (MXZLO) - Manzanillo (MXLZC). 

These adjustments reflect CMA CGM’s commitment to providing efficient, reliable service amid challenging conditions. The refined ACSA1 service aims to support the specific needs of Latin American exporters, especially those in the perishable goods sector. The M2X service will offer enhanced connectivity to Mexico’s primary ports, crucial for maintaining strong trade links in the region.

By optimizing its service structure, CMA CGM aims to sustain competitive transit times and ensure timely delivery, helping its clients manage the complex logistics of shipping amid increased congestion.