Maersk has announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with HD Hyundai to collaborate on decarbonisation solutions for vessels. At the same time, HD Hyundai plans to expand its use of Maersk’s integrated logistics services across its affiliates.

The signing ceremony, held at the HD Hyundai Global R&D Center (GRC) in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, was attended by key figures, including HD Hyundai, Executive Vice Chairman, Chung Kisun and Maersk, Chairman, Robert Maersk Uggla, along with other relevant officials.

Our collaboration with Maersk will serve as a leading example of innovation in the global logistics market by combining decarbonisation shipping technologies with integrated logistics networks,” said Chung Kisun, Executive Vice Chairman of HD Hyundai. “We will rapidly advance the world’s best shipbuilding technologies to build a sustainable maritime logistics network that ensures safety, low emissions, and optimal efficiency.

Initially, the two companies will conduct a six-month trial to test Avikus’ HiNAS, an advanced navigation solution aimed at improving energy efficiency in vessel operations, and HD Hyundai Marine Solution's OCEANWISE route optimisation. This trial, to be conducted on a Maersk container vessel built and delivered by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, aims to assess the fuel-saving and greenhouse gas emission-reduction impacts of optimised navigation systems. The two companies also plan to explore cooperation in ship retrofitting for decarbonisation, focusing on optimising engine efficiency, increasing container ship cargo capacity, and retrofitting dual-fuel propulsion systems. Additionally, they will collaborate on joint research to explore the feasibility of the Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) system.

Furthermore, HD Hyundai will strengthen its global supply chain by leveraging Maersk’s integrated logistics services. This includes expanding ocean freight volumes supported by Maersk’s East-West network, along with using Maersk’s airfreight services, land transportation, and warehousing infrastructure.

The initial phase of the partnership will focus on providing tailored logistics solutions for HD Hyundai’s affiliates, including HD Hyundai XiteSolution and HD Hyundai Marine Solution. The collaboration will gradually extend across other affiliates, further enhancing the stability and agility of HD Hyundai’s global supply chain.

We have built a strong partnership with HD Hyundai over decades, based on mutual trust and respect,” said Robert Maersk Uggla, Chairman of A.P. Moller–Maersk. “This Memorandum of Understanding marks an important milestone, reinforcing our relationship and paving the way for even greater collaboration in the future.