MSC Rolls Out Three New Major Shipping Services to Expand Global Connectivity

MSC has launched a trio of new shipping services in the last month, signalling a broad push to deepen its global network and serve high-growth trade corridors. These launches encompass new trades between Asia and Africa, and between South America and the Middle East.

Yesterday, MSC announced the launch of the “Cheetah” service, a standalone direct route connecting Asia with Mozambique. The first sailing of the vessel MSC Sheffield III (voyage FH545A) will depart from Singapore on November 3, 2025.

The rotation includes Singapore → Colombo → Beira → Nacala → Singapore and is described as offering faster transit times to, and expanded port coverage within, Mozambique, tailored for cargo such as vehicles, electronics, textiles and chemicals.

Earlier in the month, MSC unveiled a new service linking South America directly to the Middle East, with Abu Dhabi serving as a key trans-shipment hub.

Starting October 2025, the route will run from Brazil’s Itajaí (and other South American ports such as Buenos Aires, Rio Grande, Santos, Rio de Janeiro) to Abu Dhabi and onward to destinations in the Gulf like Shuwaikh and Hamad, delivering in under 33-39 days to the region.

In late September MSC also announced the launching of the “Sambar” service connecting China with Vietnam, Thailand and Malaysia; plus enhancements to its “Pertiwi” and “Orchid” services linking China/Indonesia and South China/Vietnam respectively, which will commence in October and November 2025.

Together, these moves reflect MSC’s strategic emphasis on building direct, standalone services rather than relying purely on feedered or trans-shipment models. By reducing transit times, cutting intermediate stops and tailoring for specific cargo types in emerging markets, MSC is positioning to win competitive advantage in key corridors.

Analysts say the timing is no coincidence. African trade corridors, Middle Eastern hub ports and Southeast Asian flows are all poised for structural growth. MSC’s enhanced connectivity likely strengthens its offering for shippers seeking reliability and speed.

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