Record-breaking 24,000 TEU vessels from MSC mark a major step in integrating West Africa into global trade networks
A New Era for West African Trade
Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has made maritime history with the deployment of record-breaking megaships to West Africa—an ambitious move that marks a new phase in the region’s integration with global trade networks.
The arrival of MSC’s 24,000 TEU vessels on MSC’s Africa Express routes is expected to significantly boost trade flows, drive economic growth, and catalyze major upgrades in port and logistics infrastructure across key markets.
MSC – Breaking Records on West African Routes
MSC recently introduced two of its largest vessels—the MSC Diletta and MSC Türkiye—to its Africa Express service, which connects major Asian export hubs to key West African ports. The route now links China, South Korea, and Southeast Asia with Lomé (Togo), Tema (Ghana), Abidjan (Côte d’Ivoire), and Douala (Cameroon).
Measuring 400 meters in length and over 61 meters in width, the MSC Diletta has a capacity of 23,964 TEUs. Its counterpart, MSC Türkiye, is slightly larger with a 24,346 TEU capacity—making it one of the largest container ships ever built.
The MSC Diletta made history with its maiden call at the Port of Lomé on April 23, becoming one of the largest vessels ever to dock in West Africa. The vessel has since visited additional ports, including Abidjan, showcasing the growing capability of the region’s infrastructure to handle ultra-large ships.
Strategic Investment in Africa’s Trade Future
According to MSC, this milestone is part of a broader long-term strategy for the continent. The investment is designed to enhance trade capacity, strengthen regional connectivity, and support local economic development.
Two key factors are driving MSC’s megaship strategy in West Africa:
- Rising Asia-West Africa Trade
Increasing trade volumes between Asia and West Africa have prompted the need for larger, more efficient vessels. The deployment of 24,000 TEU megaships enables MSC to meet this demand sustainably while improving supply chain efficiency. - Supporting Regional Growth
MSC’s investment goes beyond operational upgrades. By introducing ultra-large vessels, the company is also encouraging port upgrades, fostering local employment, and enabling broader economic development across the region.
A Pivotal Moment for West African Trade
Industry analysts anticipate that the regular deployment of megaships along the West African coast will have far-reaching impacts. These include increased trade volumes, job creation in port operations and logistics, and the acceleration of critical infrastructure projects to accommodate larger vessels.
MSC’s move not only underscores West Africa’s growing significance in global shipping but also sets the stage for a new era in the region’s trade and economic development. With 24,000 TEU megaships now part of the landscape, West Africa is poised to strengthen its position as a key hub in international trade routes.
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