In a landmark moment for maritime trade in Africa, MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company has become the first shipping line to deploy mega-large container vessels with a capacity of 24,000 TEU on the continent.
The arrival of the MSC DILETTA and MSC TÜRKIYE on the Africa Express service, connecting key regions from China and South Korea through Southeast Asia to Ghana, Togo, Côte d’Ivoire, and Cameroon, signals a significant leap in West Africa’s port capabilities and holds the potential to positively alter the economic environment.
The historic first call of these colossal vessels occurred in Lomé, Togo, on April 23 with the arrival of the MSC DILETTA. This event marks a turning point, ushering in an era of unprecedented shipping capacity for the region.
The Lomé Container Terminal is the largest container facility in West Africa and sub-Saharan Africa. It is also the fifth largest in Africa having handled approximately 1.7 million TEU in 2024.
MSC believes the arrival of 24,000 TEU ultra-large container vessels on African shores marks not only a major milestone, but also reflects its dedication to strengthening trade, driving economic growth across West Africa, and supporting local communities.
Driving force behind the mega ship deployment
Several key factors have driven MSC’s strategic decision to deploy these 24,000 TEU vessels to West Africa:
- Surging Asia-West Africa trade: The volume of business and trade between Asia and Africa, particularly West Africa, is experiencing rapid growth. Deploying larger vessels allows MSC to efficiently cater to this increasing demand as we are Africa’s supply chain partner of choice.
- Meeting customer demand: MSC is directly responding to the growing needs of its customers for increased capacity and more efficient shipping solutions on this vital trade route.
- Commitment to Africa’s economic development: This deployment underscores MSC’s long-term commitment to supporting the economic development of Africa by providing the necessary infrastructure for enhanced trade and connectivity.
(MSC photo of container vessel at Lome, Togo)