Finance Ministry Moves to Block ZIM Sale
Israel's Finance Ministry opposes the $4.2 billion sale of ZIM to Hapag-Lloyd and FIMI, citing operational risks and potential conflicts of interest.
Jerusalem, 28 September, 2026 (TPS-IL) — Israel’s Finance Ministry has formally opposed the proposed $4.2 billion sale of ZIM to German shipping giant Hapag-Lloyd and Israeli investment firm FIMI, saying it should not be approved in its current form.
Founded in 1945, ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd., headquartered in Haifa, is an Israeli international cargo shipping company and one of the world’s top 20 carriers. It began trading on the New York Stock Exchange in 2021.
The ministry cited concerns that a new Israeli ZIM company would remain operationally dependent on Hapag-Lloyd for vessels, containers, shipping slots and other infrastructure, and warned of potential conflicts of interest.
The ministry raised additional concerns about Hapag-Lloyd’s shareholders, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
The ministry said it could reconsider its position if the buyers submit a revised structure addressing the identified risks.