German shipping giant Hapag-Lloyd’s proposed acquisition of ZIM Integrated Shipping Services is valued at $4.2 billion. The offer is $35 per share, and the deal was announced in February 2026.
The acquisition faces regulatory hurdles in Israel, chiefly over the government’s “golden share,” which is maintained for national security interests. The deal has also drawn strong opposition from some Israeli government officials and workers’ unions concerned about foreign ownership, despite shareholder approval.
To address those concerns, Hapag-Lloyd revised its proposal to create a separate, Israeli-controlled entity to manage part of the fleet for national interests.
ZIM’s share price remains significantly below the offer price, reflecting market doubts that the Israeli government will approve the deal. The outcome depends on key regulatory decisions, and closing could extend into 2027.