French ocean carrier CMA CGM is set to develop and deploy a groundbreaking zero-emission inland transport system in Vietnam.
This initiative includes a 100% electric barge powered by renewable energy from a new solar farm located at Gemalink Terminal in Cai Mep, in which CMA CGM owns a 25% stake.
The e-barge will operate on a 180km round trip between Binh Duong Province and the deep-sea terminal at Gemalink, achieving zero greenhouse gas emissions. By running exclusively on electric batteries, it is expected to eliminate 778 tons of CO2 emissions annually and transport over 50,000 TEUs annually.
The innovative vessel, co-designed by CMA CGM’s New Build and R&D teams alongside battery technology partner CATL, will be powered by 100% certified renewable energy. A dedicated solar farm at Gemalink will generate 1 GWh of green electricity annually to support the e-barge’s charging needs.
The world’s largest supplier of athletic shoes and apparel NIKE has partnered with CMA CGM to prioritize the use of the e-barge for its shipments between Binh Duong Province and Gemalink, ensuring optimized utilization of this sustainable solution.
Scheduled to begin operations in 2026, the project is part of CMA CGM’s scalable and forward-looking land connectivity model. It integrates the development of an e-barge, dedicated charging infrastructure, and renewable energy production. This innovative approach aligns with Vietnam’s Net Zero 2050 objectives and has the potential to be replicated globally.
The project, which includes local job creation through solar farm construction, will contribute to responsible economic growth while enhancing Vietnam’s position in renewable energy and sustainable logistics across Southeast Asia, according to CMA CGM.
Christine Cabau-Woehrel, Executive Vice-President Assets and Operations at CMA CGM, declared: “It has been a great achievement to design and promote this project with NIKE’s partnership for commitment of usage in Vietnam waterways but can be replicated easily in other geographies and with other major customers. We are looking forward to duplicating and adapting this innovative solution with other cargo owners wishing to find solutions towards more sustainable transport modes.”
