Hapag-Lloyd acquires 25% stake in Maasvlakte II terminal

Hapag-Lloyd has signed an agreement with APM Terminals to acquire a 25% stake in APM Terminals Maasvlakte II B.V., strengthening its presence at one of Europe’s key container hubs.

The partnership will support the continued development of the Maasvlakte II terminal, including capacity expansion and improvements in operational performance. The investment also highlights the terminal’s strategic importance as a European hub for the Gemini Cooperation between Hapag-Lloyd and A.P. Moller–Maersk.

Through the transaction, Hapag-Lloyd will secure long-term access to automated terminal handling capacity while expanding its global terminal portfolio through its Terminals and Infrastructure division, Hanseatic Global Terminals (HGT). APM Terminals will retain operational control of Maasvlakte II.

Dheeraj Bhatia, CTIO of Hapag-Lloyd AG and CEO of Hanseatic Global Terminals, said, “"With the planned investment in Rotterdam, we will further enhance the efficiency and reliability of our network. The terminal is a key element for the Gemini Cooperation and fits well with our strategy to build a stronger terminal portfolio in core markets.”

Keith Svendsen, CEO of APM Terminals, stated, “Hapag-Lloyd’s investment is a strong vote of confidence in a terminal that is critical to the Gemini network and to Rotterdam. This transaction reflects the close partnership between APM Terminals and Hapag-Lloyd and our shared commitment to the terminal’s long-term development and performance. The ongoing expansion is being delivered through close collaboration between the MVII team, the works council and the Port of Rotterdam Authority.”

APM Terminals Maasvlakte II, operational since 2015, is undergoing a major expansion to strengthen its position as a key European gateway. The project will add 1,000 metres of deep-sea berth, doubling the terminal's total berth length to 2,000 metres. The expansion also includes additional yard capacity, four new rail tracks, Automated Terminal Tractors (ATTs) and other automated equipment.

Once completed, the terminal is expected to increase its annual handling capacity to 5.4 million TEU, enhancing its operational resilience and ability to accommodate future cargo flows through the Port of Rotterdam. The financial details of the transaction have not been disclosed. Completion remains subject to approval from the relevant authorities and regulators.