Recently, the global shipping giant Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) officially announced that it will comprehensively upgrade its IRO route service, with the most eye-catching move being the addition of Cape Town as a port of call. This upgrade will successfully establish a direct shipping channel between Cape Town and, bringing unprecedented efficient transportation experiences and high-quality services for the transportation of dry bulk and refrigerated goods.

Optimizing Network Layout to Strengthen Trade Support

MSC has always been committed to building a more comprehensive and efficient port coverage network. This upgrade to the IROKO route is a key step in its continuous strengthening of route layout Through this move, MSC further strengthens the connection between South Africa and major markets in Asia, effectively supporting the increasingly prosperous trade between the two regions.

The First V to Port Confirmed, with Significant Transport Timeliness Advantages

It is reported that the first vessel scheduled to call at Cape Town is the MSC Anchorage, which expected to arrive at the Port of Cape Town on December 11th and 12th, 2025.

The transport timeliness from Cape Town exceptionally outstanding and highly competitive in the market. Goods can achieve direct transportation to Singapore in 15 days, to Xiamen in 21 days, to Ningbo 24 days, and to Nansha in 27 days. In addition, MSC also provides convenient transshipment services, with an estimated 28 days Chittagong, 25 days to Shanghai, and 23 days to Port Klang (please note that the above are estimated voyage schedules for reference only).

The detailed port sequence is announced, and the transport path is clearly presented

The following is the specific port sequence of the IROKO route: Ningbo–Nha–Singapore–Black Point–Cotonou–Apapa–Tincan–Onne–Lobito–Cape Town–Singapore–Xiamen–ingbo.

This upgrade to the IROKO route by MSC will undoubtedly inject new vitality into trade between South Africa and Asia. With the realization of direct shipping Cape Town, cargo transportation between the two regions will become more convenient and efficient, which is expected to further promote cooperation and exchanges in various fields between the two sides