MSC Pioneers New Era in African Trade with Introduction of Mega Container Ships

Image Credits: MSC Mediterranean Shipping Co/Facebook

A recent publication by MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company reveals that they have made a significant leap in the shipping industry by being the first to send massive container ships to Africa.As the largest container shipping line globally, both in terms of fleet size and cargo capacity, MSC is setting new standards.

Recently, two of their ultra-large vessels, each capable of carrying over 24,000 TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units), docked in West Africa as part of an enhanced service called Africa Express. The MSC diletta made its debut at the Port of lomé in Togo on April 23, followed closely by the MSC Turkiye, which visited ports in Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Cameroon. This move marks a significant expansion for global shipping routes into this region.

The MSC Diletta was constructed in China back in 2021 and boasts a deadweight tonnage of 235,228 tons with a capacity for 23,964 TEU. Registered under Liberia’s flag and leased from Chinese financial institutions long-term, it first stopped at Lomé where it operates alongside China Merchants at the Lomé Container Terminal before heading to Abidjan.

Conversely, the newer vessel—MSC Turkiye—was delivered just this year and surpasses its predecessor with a capacity of 24,346 TEU and a deadweight tonnage reaching up to 281,458 tons. Also registered in Liberia and built-in China like its counterpart; it stands out as one of Africa’s largest container ships ever recorded with impressive dimensions: measuring about 400 meters long.

According to company insights:

• Growing Trade Dynamics: There’s been an uptick in trade between Asia—especially countries like China and South Korea—and West African nations. These larger vessels are essential for meeting increasing demands efficiently.

• Evolving Customer Expectations: Clients are increasingly seeking larger capacities along with quicker delivery times on these vital routes.

• Commitment to Economic Growth: This strategic expansion aims not only at enhancing logistics but also fostering economic development across Africa.

Image Credits: MSC Mediterranean Shipping co/Facebook

Previously operating vessels were around 366 meters long; now that ships stretching up to 400 meters are arriving regularly at ports like Lomé—a shift that necessitates infrastructure upgrades while presenting exciting economic prospects.

Port officials noted that accommodating these mega-ships involves technical challenges but also opens doors for substantial economic growth opportunities. The Lomé Container Terminal has emerged as West Africa’s largest port handling approximately 1.7 million TEUs last year alone—ranking fifth across all African ports! While they’ve welcomed large vessels before occasionally; this marks their first regular service featuring such colossal ships.

Experts believe this transition could yield lasting advantages for West African economies:

• Increased Trade Capacity: Larger vessels mean more cargo can be transported per trip which boosts both imports and exports significantly.

• Enhanced Infrastructure Development: The need for deeper berths or stronger cranes will likely prompt investments into port facilities.

• Operational Efficiency Gains: Consolidating shipments can lead to reduced costs while speeding up transit times—a win-win situation!

Other major players like CMA CGM have also introduced larger ships into their fleets while investing heavily across various terminals throughout Africa. Traditionally used ultra-large carriers include Hapag-Lloyd among others who focus on routes connecting Asia with Europe—all designed within Suez Canal size limits ensuring smooth operations through key maritime passages.

Reference: MSC