ZIM reports Q1 sales drop 30% and adjusted EBITDA down 60% amid shipping market weakness

ZIM Integrated Shipping reported a 30% year-over-year sales decline to $1.40 billion in Q1 2026, missing expectations due to lower freight rates and an 8% drop in carried volume. Adjusted EBITDA fell 60% to $313 million with margins shrinking from 39% to 22%. The company faces rising bunkering costs from geopolitical tensions but expects to offset these with increased freight rates and LNG technology benefits. ZIM is set to be acquired by Hapag-Lloyd for $4.2 billion, with the deal expected to close by late 2026, and will not provide full-year guidance due to the merger.