New shipping route promises faster, cheaper supply chain for importers

The Onne Multipurpose Terminal (OMT) reported that a ship that sailed directly from China and was carrying the Liberian flag berth at its terminal. The vessel, MSC Dorine V, is its first-ever direct vessel to sail directly from China and the Far East.

Nicolo Scannavini, the managing director of OMT, described the connection to China and Far Eastern Asia as “game-changing” for both the terminal and the region.

“This direct call cuts out several layers of delay that importers have traditionally faced,” he said. “It means shorter transit times, more predictable arrival windows and significantly reduced freight costs for goods coming from China and the Far East.”

For agents, manufacturers, and traders, OMT believes that this route will result in a faster supply chain, increased cargo availability, and expanded commercial opportunities.

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“When bigger vessels call directly, the entire ecosystem benefits because economies of scale kicks in, and that stimulates jobs, competitiveness and growth,” Scannavini said.

The Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) Dorine came with a carrying capacity of 5,089 Twenty-Foot Equivalent Unit (TEU), a deadweight tonnage of 68,383 tons, gross tonnage of 54,193 tons and an overall length of 294 meters. It is among the largest containerships to call at Nigeria’s eastern ports.

Scannavini also anticipates that this direct route will reduce shipping times for consignments, lower freight charges, enable direct cargo discharge without the delays associated with transshipment, and improve reliability for businesses waiting for critical inputs.

According to him, Nigeria’s non-oil trade profile and its port attributes will be further enhanced through this new service.

OMT also appealed to the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to move faster in completing the dredging of Onne port and its channels. HThe terminal manager said the creation of a second turning basin and deeper draft access will allow even larger vessels to berth safely

“With this direct service, consignees and agents can now receive their shipments from China and Eastern Asia in as little as 40 to 42 days,” said Oscar Aguocha, regional manager and business head of MSC in Nigeria’s South-South and South-East.

“We encourage businesses to take full advantage of this new corridor because it delivers speed, certainty and cost-efficiency in ways that were not possible before.”

Over the years, OMT has made upgrades to its terminal equipment, expanding yard facilities and introducing improved cargo-handling technology for efficiency.