In the face of looming competition from new or expanded ocean shipping alliances among the biggest carriers, smaller lines are taking steps to ensure their own long-term survival.
United Arab Shipping Co. is a case in point. In the last year it has ordered 17 new post-Panamax container ships to replace its aging fleet; it overhauled its global management structure to place responsibility on trade lanes rather than regions; and it is expanding its vessel-sharing alliance with China Shipping Container Lines on a few key trades where it is adding new services.