CMA CGM enhances Japan–US service with EX1 maiden call at Kobe

CMA CGM Group has launched its enhanced Eagle Express 1 (EX1) service with a maiden call at the Port of Kobe, strengthening connections between Japan and the U.S. West Coast.

The first call was made by the 15,000 TEU container vessel PRESIDENT LB JOHNSON, marking the rollout of an upgraded service designed to deliver faster transit times and improved reliability for shippers.

Expanded Japan coverage and faster transit

The enhanced EX1 service introduces additional port calls in:

• Kobe
• Nagoya
• Yokohama

Cargo from these ports is expected to reach Los Angeles in:

• 16 days (Kobe)
• 15 days (Nagoya)
• 13 days (Yokohama)

The weekly service is positioned to provide more consistent schedules and improved access for Japanese exporters and importers.

Strengthening supply chain resilience

CMA CGM said the upgraded service supports more resilient supply chains through its terminal network, including facilities in:

• Los Angeles (FMS)
• Busan (BNC)
• Yokohama (Honmoku D5)

In the U.S., on-dock rail connections at Los Angeles enable faster inland distribution to key Midwest and Southern markets, improving end-to-end logistics performance.

The EX1 service follows the rotation:
Qingdao – Busan – Kobe – Nagoya – Yokohama – Los Angeles – Oakland – Yokohama – Naha – Busan – Qingdao.

Additional Asia–Europe connectivity

Alongside EX1, CMA CGM highlighted its Ocean Rise Express (OCR) service, which connects Japan directly to Northern Europe.

From Yokohama, transit times are estimated at:

• 38 days to Rotterdam
• 41 days to Hamburg
• 45 days to Southampton

The OCR rotation includes:
Kobe – Nagoya – Yokohama – Xiamen – Yantian – Rotterdam – Hamburg – Southampton – Nansha – Kobe.

Strategic focus on Japan trade lanes

According to Hideki Uchida, the enhanced services reflect the company’s focus on improving connectivity, speed, and reliability for customers in Japan.

The move comes as carriers continue to strengthen key transpacific and Asia-Europe routes, responding to evolving supply chain demands and the need for greater network resilience.