The Port of Cork Company has announced a significant milestone with the addition of Cork as a port of call on CMA CGM’s Panama Direct transatlantic service.
The new partnership with the global French shipping and logistics leader marks a major enhancement in Ireland’s international shipping connectivity.
The service officially commenced with its inaugural departure on 6th May, as the container vessel MV CMA CGM LOUGA set sail from Cork. This new weekly service establishes a direct link between Cork and key US East Coast ports, including New York and Savannah, providing Irish exporters and importers with a reliable, fixed-day schedule.
By offering a direct route, the service significantly reduces transit times and streamlines logistics by eliminating the need for feeder connections through other European hub ports. Cargo can now reach New York in approximately nine days and Savannah in around 11 days, delivering faster and more efficient access for Irish exports to vital US markets.
With its advantageous location on the Atlantic seaboard and proximity to key European and transatlantic routes, the Port of Cork already operates Ireland’s only other direct container shipping route between Ireland and the United States through a partnership with Independent Container Line (ICL).
This latest development is expected to support Irish trade growth by improving supply chain efficiency and strengthening transatlantic commercial ties.
