THE world\'s third largest container shipping line, CMA CGM of France, is to launch its own service linking Asia to India and the Middle East.

A company statement said a weekly express service named CIMEX (China, India, Middle East Express) will replace the current weekly Super Galex service, which the company now operates with CSVA Norasia, Gold Star and Hanjin linking the Far East, Indian sub-continent and Middle East. However, CMA CGM\'s partnership with the other lines on this service will end in mid-July.

After the changes have been implemented, the carrier will operate five 2,500 TEU boxships on the following rotation: Ningbo, Shanghai, Chiwan, Port Kelang, Nhava Sheva, Jebel Ali, Khorfakkan, Bandar Abbas, Port Kelang and Shanghai.