MSC boosts trade connectivity in Southern Africa with network upgrades
SOUTHERN AFRICA – Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has unveiled significant improvements to its Southern Africa network, enhancing trade routes between Europe and the region.
These enhancements include a revised Northwest Continent (NWC) to South Africa service and two new shuttle services, the Namibia Express and the Mozambique Shuttle.
The revamped NWC to South Africa service introduces a direct connection between North Europe and South Africa, including a new stop at Walvis Bay, Namibia.
These updates aim to improve the speed and efficiency of transporting goods between Europe and Southern Africa, facilitating trade partnerships and enhancing supply chains.
“This network enhancement underscores our commitment to providing seamless logistics solutions that cater to the growing demands of the region,” MSC said in a statement.
The Namibia Express shuttle connects Cape Town, South Africa, and Walvis Bay, enabling cargo from Europe to reach Namibia through transshipment in Cape Town.
This service enhances MSC’s intra-Africa operations and offers more shipping options for customers in the region.
Meanwhile, the Mozambique Shuttle links Walvis Bay with Maputo and Beira in Mozambique, as well as Dar Es Salaam in Tanzania and Mombasa in Kenya.
Walvis Bay emerges as a pivotal transshipment hub for cargo destined for Mozambique, ensuring streamlined logistics for goods arriving from Europe.
These upgrades are particularly significant for the robust fresh produce trade between South Africa and Europe. South Africa, a key exporter of citrus fruits, grapes, apples, and pears, relies on efficient transportation networks to meet European demand.
Citrus fruits, including oranges and lemons, form a substantial portion of these exports. The counter-seasonal production allows South Africa to supply fresh produce during Europe’s off-season.
Similarly, the country’s table grape harvest aligns well with European market requirements. Apples and pears also contribute to the growing agricultural trade, solidifying South Africa’s position as a reliable supplier.
The Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the European Union (EU) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) further strengthens these trade relations.
By reducing tariffs and providing preferential access to European markets, the EPA supports the export of South African produce, ensuring competitive pricing and higher demand.
First departures and future impact
MSC has confirmed the revised schedules for these services, with the MSC Rosaria voyage NZ504A set to depart London Gateway on January 20, 2025, under the updated NWC to South Africa service.
The Namibia Express begins its journey with the MSC Himanshi III voyage OA502A from Cape Town on January 8, 2025, while the Mozambique Shuttle launches with the MSC Imma III voyage JO502A from Beira on January 14, 2025.
These developments highlight MSC’s ongoing commitment to fostering trade links and providing reliable logistics solutions.
By enhancing its network, the company aims to support regional economic growth and solidify Southern Africa’s position as a critical player in global trade.
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