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Multinational: Jurisdictions likely to clear controversial shipping alliance

By  |  December 19, 2013

Reports say Europe, China and the US are likely to approve of a proposed shipping alliance between the world’s top container shipping firms, though sources say regulators will likely demand concessions.

The alliance known as P3 includes Denmark-based Maersk Line, France-based CMA and Switzerland-based Mediterranean Shipping Co. Sources say regulators will clear the deal late next year despite controversy raised in China as some competitors say the alliance will give the group dominance.

The US Federal Maritime Commission, the EU Competition Commission and China’s transport ministry gathered in Washington earlier this week to discuss the alliance, ultimately deciding the deal did not constitute a merger. But, sources say, the authorities will likely include conditions to prevent price-fixing and other anticompetitive behavior by the companies.

Full Content: Wall Street Journal

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