The planned start of the P3 alliance has been delayed until the autumn with it still to get regulatory approvals in Europe and Asia.

The alliance of Maersk Line, CMA CGM and Mediterranean Shipping Co (MSC) was originally slated to start operation in mid-2014. The delay was confirmed by Maersk in its first quarter results and an announcement by CMA CGM.

P3 was cleared by the US Federal Maritime Commission in March, but still requires other approvals including from the EU and China.

“The P3 partners continue their close cooperation with competition and maritime authorities in Europe and Asia to address questions and to explain the nature of P3,” CMA CGM said.

“CMA CGM now expects P3 to start operations in the autumn 2014.”