Zim’s board of directors have given approval for the line to launch a new Asia/USEC service during late May, using its own tonnage.

Congestion is easing at US West Coast ports following a deal between the Pacific Maritime Association and the International Longshore & Warehouse Union.

Several European carriers that traditionally had a strong focus on freighter operations, such as Air France-KLM, have cut back their maindeck lift and are expected to make further cuts.