Israeli container line Zim has struck a new cooperation deal with members of the 2M Alliance.

The strategic agreement involves five loops from Asia to the US east coast with Maersk Line and Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC).

The runs start in early September.

Zim is operating one loop and 2M the rest, with slot swaps on all.

The line said the new cooperation offers clients a wider range of direct calls in Asia and the US, and a faster transit time, as well as generating cost efficiencies.