One-Third of California Orange Imports Transported by HMM

HMM Market Share 33%... 1st Place for 2 Consecutive Years

HMM has emerged as the leading shipping company transporting California oranges imported from the United States to South Korea.

According to the U.S. JOC 'Pier Data', HMM transported a total of 2,982 TEU (1 TEU equals one 20-foot container) of California oranges bound for Korea in 2024, capturing a market share of 33% and securing the top position for the second consecutive year. The second place was held by Japan's ONE (1,828 TEU), followed by France's CMA-CGM (1,286 TEU).

Most of the oranges imported into Korea are from California and are transported annually between January and April. Oranges are a representative high value-added cargo transported in 'reefer containers' capable of freezing and refrigeration, making them a highly competitive item among shipping companies.

HMM operates ‘Ultra Freezer’ containers (special containers capable of freezing down to minus 60 degrees Celsius), which are operated by only a few shipping companies worldwide. Some of these reefer containers are equipped with Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and since last month, HMM has been providing real-time monitoring services targeting 10 regions across 7 countries including Korea, the United States, Mexico, Chile, and Peru. This service allows shippers to check the real-time location of cargo as well as detailed information such as temperature, humidity, oxygen, and carbon dioxide levels in real time.

An HMM official stated, "With advancements in freezing and refrigeration technology, market expansion for imported fruits is expected," adding, "We plan to actively pursue attracting high value-added cargo and expanding market share by utilizing reefer containers and other means."