- The CMA CGM Group has granted a 25% reduction on sea freight rates for apples reefer containers to facilitate transport to Egypt, Libya, and Saudi Arabia.
- This support will help capitalize on the premium quality of Lebanese apples and boost their competitiveness in international markets.
- The initiative is part of a broader commitment to supporting Lebanese agriculture and growers
In support of Apple Growers in Lebanon, and due to this season’s exceptional conditions, the CMA CGM Group has reduced sea freight rates for Lebanese apples by approximately 25% to facilitate container transport to Egypt, Libya, and Saudi Arabia. The group had previously introduced direct weekly shipping services for apple exports to key Arab markets, particularly Egypt, and provided smart refrigerated cargo to facilitate seasonal trade.
The reduction covers approximately US$1 million in allocated shipping costs for exports. The plan aims to support Lebanese growers, due to the abundant apple harvest, and to ease economic burdens, and address challenges arising from current conditions, particularly disruptions to transport corridors, and limited market access, which are making exports increasingly difficult.
It also supports capitalizing on the premium quality of Lebanese apples to strengthen their competitiveness in international markets.
This project aligns with the Ministry of Agriculture’s plan to export 100,000 tons of Lebanese apples during the 2026 season. It underscores the importance of cooperation between the public and private sectors.
CMA CGM’s Support for Lebanese Agriculture
This initiative is part of a broader commitment to supporting Lebanese agriculture and growers:
- CMA CGM established Lebanon Packing House (LPH) in 2021 in Taanayel, Bekaa, to provide packing, sorting, and cold-chain services for Lebanese fruits and vegetables by connecting local farmers and producers with regional and international export markets.
- The Group also supported Lebanese potato exports to Gulf markets strengthening rural economies.
- Leading in reefer shipping in Lebanon, CMA CGM facilitates seasonal trade by providing smart refrigerated cargo, helping preserve freshness and quality throughout the journey, with confirmed container capacity, competitive rates, and direct weekly services.
CMA CGM Group reaffirms its commitment to contributing to Lebanon’s economic recovery and deploying its shipping services to support the country’s various productive sec