MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company has become the first shipping line to deploy ultra-large container ships each with a capacity of 24,000 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) to West Africa.
The historic debut was made by the MSC DILETTA, which arrived at the Port of Lomé, Togo, followed by the MSC TÜRKIYE, both operating on MSC’s Africa Express service. This new shipping route links key markets in China, South Korea, and Southeast Asia with major West African ports, including Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, and Cameroon. The decision to introduce these mega vessels stems from two primary factors. First, there has been a sharp increase in trade between Asia and Africa, particularly in the West African region.
Potential
The growing demand for efficient and cost-effective shipping solutions has made the deployment of larger vessels a logical step. These ships offer significant economies of scale, helping MSC to meet the expanding trade volumes while reducing transportation costs per container. Second, the move reflects MSC’s long-term commitment to Africa’s development. By introducing vessels of this size, the company is also signaling confidence in the region’s potential and contributing to the modernization of port infrastructure.
This advancement is expected to have far-reaching economic implications. The presence of such large vessels in West Africa will likely accelerate investments in port expansion, logistics infrastructure, and supply chain modernization. Ports that can accommodate these mega vessels—like Lomé—will become key nodes in global shipping networks, enhancing the region’s attractiveness for international trade and investment. Additionally, improved shipping capacity can benefit local economies by increasing export opportunities, reducing import costs, and creating new employment in logistics and port services.
Overall, the deployment of 24,000 TEU container ships by MSC is a transformative moment for West Africa. It not only reflects the growing importance of the region in global trade but also lays the groundwork for sustained economic growth, deeper international connectivity, and improved access to global markets.