CMA CGM launches Ocean Rise Express linking Japan to North Europe

CMA CGM has marked the maiden call of its new Ocean Rise Express (OCR) service at Port of Kobe, introducing a direct weekly connection between Japan and North Europe.

The OCR service offers competitive transit times, with shipments from Yokohama reaching Rotterdam in 38 days, Hamburg in 41 days, and Southampton in 45 days. Operated entirely by CMA CGM, the service aims to improve schedule reliability and speed to market for shippers.

The inaugural call was made by the CMA CGM TOSCA, an 8,000 TEU vessel. The rotation includes Kobe, Nagoya, Yokohama, Xiamen, Yantian, Rotterdam, Hamburg, Southampton, Nansha, and returns to Kobe.

Strengthening Japan–U.S. connectivity

CMA CGM is also enhancing its Eagle Express 1 (EX1) service, boosting connections between Japan and the U.S. West Coast.

The upgraded service adds port calls at Kobe, Nagoya, and Yokohama, with transit times to Los Angeles of 16, 14, and 12 days respectively. The weekly service will begin from Kobe on May 5, 2026.

Hideki Uchida said the new OCR service “strengthens Asia-Europe connectivity while delivering greater value and schedule reliability,” while the EX1 upgrades reinforce fast and reliable links between Asia and the U.S.

The developments underline CMA CGM’s continued investment in Japan and its focus on enhancing global trade connectivity.

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