MSC develops end-to-end inland logistics services to Zimbabwe, Africa

East Africa: A Rising Inland Hub in Global Trade

As a key region for global mineral and agricultural trade, East Africa's inland markets are playing an increasingly important role in international supply chains.
To better support our customers, we have systematically outlined four core gateway ports connecting Zimbabwe-Beira, Durban, Maputo, and Walvis Bay-and analyzed their strategic advantages and logistics value.

The Golden Corridor

Port of Beira, Mozambique

Located in central Mozambique, the Port of Beira is only approximately 560 km from Harare, the capital of Zimbabwe, making it the closest deep-water port serving the country.
With a well-established rail–road intermodal network, Beira has become the most efficient logistics artery for Zimbabwe's imports and exports.

MSC highlights its CHEETAH Service, offering direct sailings from Singapore to Beira. Combined with a robust inland transport network beyond the port, this service enables customers to deliver cargo safely, faster, and at a more competitive cost.

Port rotation:
Singapore – Colombo – Beira – Nacala – Singapore

Service advantages:

Cost efficiency: The shortest inland distance significantly reduces inland transportation costs.

Mature corridor: Currently, over 90% of Zimbabwe's imports are transshipped via Beira, supported by smooth operations and reliable, well-established services.

Multiple Gateways Working Together

Building a Flexible Logistics Network

To meet diverse trade and logistics needs, MSC positions Beira as the core gateway, while collaborating with major regional hubs in South Africa, Namibia, and beyond, forming a comprehensive inland network covering Zimbabwe.

Port of Durban, South Africa

Situated on South Africa's east coast, Durban is one of the busiest ports in Africa and the Southern Hemisphere.
Although approximately 1,680 km from Harare, Durban remains a critical hub linking Zimbabwe to global markets, thanks to its world-class port infrastructure, dense global shipping network, and strong bulk cargo handling capabilities.

Port of Maputo, Mozambique

Following recent modernization and expansion, Maputo has become a key pressure-relief alternative to Beira and Durban.
With direct rail connections to Zimbabwe and continuously improving capacity, Maputo offers another reliable option for imports and exports.

Port of Walvis Bay, Namibia

Located on Namibia's Atlantic coast, Walvis Bay offers distinct advantages on long-haul routes to Europe and the Americas, despite longer inland distances.
Its container terminal is operated by MSC's subsidiary TIL (Terminal Investment Limited), ensuring high operational efficiency and fast cargo turnaround.

MSC's Deep Presence in East African Inland Logistics

Delivering End-to-End Solutions

Both Beira and Durban serve as strategic pillars within MSC's East and Southern Africa network.
Beyond port-to-port ocean transport, MSC is committed to solving the "last-mile" inland logistics challenge.

MSC operates its own container depot and local office in Harare, Zimbabwe, enabling true end-to-end, fully integrated logistics solutions.

MSC's Core Value Proposition

Asset-backed services: With self-operated depots, MSC provides empty container positioning, container repair, and value-added upgrades such as food-grade and tobacco-grade containers.

Through Bill of Lading (TBL): By seamlessly integrating sea–rail and sea–truck transport, MSC simplifies cross-border multimodal logistics. Customers benefit from a single point of contact and full shipment visibility throughout the journey.

Looking Ahead

MSC will continue to optimize its port portfolio and inland logistics network, further enhancing supply chain efficiency and resilience across East and Southern Africa, and supporting customers in unlocking broader market opportunities.