Hapag-Lloyd and FIMI’s proposed $4.2 billion acquisition of Zim is facing growing opposition from Israeli authorities, raising doubts over whether the deal will receive government approval. A meeting between eight government agencies expected to submit their positions on the transaction has been postponed. It is now scheduled for 9 September, according to a report by Calcalist. Most of the agencies are expected to oppose the transaction. However, no final decision has been made. Hapag-Lloyd and FIMI are expected to receive a hearing at Israel’s Companies Authority after the agencies submit their positions. This could provide the buyers with another opportunity to make their case. Israeli Shipping Authority maintains opposition to Zim deal Tzadok Radker, head of Israel’s Shipping and Ports Authority, has submitted a second opinion on the proposed acquisition. His position remains against the deal. The authority plays an important role in the review process, as several government agencies rely on its professional assessment. Its latest opinion came after Hapag-Lloyd, FIMI and Zim submitted additional information about the proposed transaction. The buyers have outlined several commitments for a new Israeli shipping company that would be separated from Zim’s international operations. Under the proposal, Zim Israel would operate 16 ships. Hapag-Lloyd has also pledged to establish a new Israeli regional division with 200 employees. In addition, the plan includes a technology centre with between 250 and 300 full-time employees. Employment guarantees would remain in place for 10 years. The proposed Zim Israel would also begin operations without debt. The current Zim has approximately $2.9 billion in debt. Concerns over Zim Israel’s independence Despite these commitments, the Shipping and Ports Authority remains concerned about the independence of the proposed company. “The cumulative weight of the positive data presented is limited in rel