A Historic Move: MSC Deploys Mega Container Vessels in Africa
MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) operates one of the world’s largest fleets of ultra-large container vessels (ULCVs), each capable of carrying more than 24,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU). Now, marking a new chapter for Africa’s shipping industry, MSC has become the first carrier to deploy these mega vessels on the continent.
Earlier this year, the MSC DILETTA made its inaugural call in Lomé, Togo. The vessel’s debut represents a pivotal moment, opening a new era of significantly increased shipping capacity for the continent.
Why MSC Is Deploying Mega Ships to Africa
For MSC, bringing 24,000 TEU ULCVs to Africa underscores the company’s commitment to fostering inclusive trade, fueling West Africa’s economic growth and investing in local communities.
This decision to introduce these vessels to the Africa Express service was made based on three essential factors.
Rapidly Growing Trade Between Asia and West Africa
Supporting Africa’s Economic Growth
Trade between Asia and West Africa is undergoing huge growth. Coupled with African Development Bank projections that Africa’s GDP (gross domestic product) will rise from 3.3% to 3.9% in 2025, this creates a clear need for increased shipping capacity.
MSC’s commitment to supporting Africa’s economic development is reinforced by the deployment of ULCVs, which provide the infrastructure to support increased commerce and connectivity in the trade route.
Fulfilling Market Demand
MSC’s deployment of mega ships enhances maritime transportation efficiency, directly meeting customers’ growing demand for increased shipping capacity.
Following the arrival of the MSC DILETTA, a second mega vessel arrived on the African Express Service, the MSC TÜRKIYE. The vessels provide a connection to key regions from China and South Korea via Southeast Asia to Ghana, Togo, Côte d’Ivoire and Cameroon.
A Revolutionary Regional Impact and Unmatched Scale
Beyond increasing shipping capacity, the ongoing presence of these ULCVs represents an economically transformative moment for the region. As these vessels become a staple of the seas, Africa is entering an era of trade that will:
- Facilitate greater import and export activity
- Foster economic growth in West Africa
- Spur further investment and development in port infrastructure across West Africa
- Streamline logistics and reduce transit times.
Transforming Trade in West Africa
MSC is reinforcing its commitment to West Africa with major investments in road and rail, ensuring integrated, secure and sustainable multimodal transport solutions.
With increased capacity to facilitate larger imports, improved efficiency to manage higher import volume and enhanced port infrastructure, these ships have the potential to transform the area’s market ecosystem and drive exponential growth.