Strategic Expansion in West Africa
In February 2026, the CMA CGM Group announced the opening of its first Africa regional office in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, consolidating its continental operations under one dedicated leadership hub. This step marks a major strategic expansion into Africa’s fast-growing trade and logistics market, with the new office designed to strengthen decision-making, customer proximity, and regional integration of services.
The move follows a year of rising maritime traffic and economic activity across Africa, particularly along the Far East–West Africa trade corridor, which experienced nearly 30 % volume growth in 2025, becoming one of the fastest-expanding shipping routes globally.
A Regional Headquarters Built for Africa
Located in Abidjan, the new headquarters brings together key strategic functions under one roof:
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Commercial management
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Export pricing and routing
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Customer service
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Intermodal logistics
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Equipment management
This integrated structure allows CMA CGM to respond faster and more effectively to local market needs and global supply chain challenges.
The office is led by Adeline Gabillaud, who serves as Vice-President and Regional Director for Africa. Gabillaud’s extensive experience in maritime transport and logistics is expected to enhance CMA CGM’s operational support to African shippers and partners.
Enhancing Connectivity Across Africa
This regional hub leverages Abidjan’s strategic location on the West African coast, a gateway to landlocked markets in the Sahel and Central Africa. By situating its decision-making close to these expanding markets, CMA CGM aims to improve service reliability, strengthen partner relationships, and accelerate growth in freight forwarding, maritime shipping, and integrated logistics solutions across the continent.
CMA CGM already operates a substantial presence in Africa, with participation in 8 container terminals on the continent, including in Abidjan, Lagos, Kribi, Nouakchott, Nouadhibou, Tanger, Casablanca, and Nador. The company also deploys key maritime services connecting Africa with Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, reinforcing its role in facilitating trade flows and supply chain networks.
Implications for African Supply Chains
The establishment of a regional office in Abidjan reflects broader trends in global logistics:
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Proximity to customers and markets improves responsiveness and service quality
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Enhanced regional coordination supports supply chain efficiency
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Stronger local leadership fosters better alignment with African economic priorities
It also underscores Abidjan’s rising importance as a logistics and trade hub in West Africa, attracting major global players seeking to strengthen their presence on the continent.
