MSC Expands Kribi Intermodal Hub to Boost West Africa Trade

MSC has announced an expansion of intermodal connectivity services at the Port of Kribi in Cameroon, a strategic move to enhance operational capacity and improve regional supply chain efficiency across West Africa. This infrastructure investment reflects growing demand for integrated port-to-hinterland solutions and positions Kribi as a more competitive gateway for container traffic in the region. The expansion signals MSC's commitment to African market development and addresses emerging logistics needs for shippers requiring seamless modal transitions between ocean, rail, and road transport.

For supply chain professionals operating in or serving West Africa, this development carries meaningful implications. Enhanced intermodal capabilities reduce handling times, lower transshipment costs, and create new routing flexibility for companies sourcing from or serving the region. The upgrade also diversifies export-import options beyond congested traditional hubs, potentially improving service levels and cost predictability for regional trade flows.

Companies with African exposure should assess how Kribi's improved connectivity aligns with their network optimization strategies, particularly for last-mile distribution into Central Africa. This expansion also reflects broader trends in port modernization across Africa, where terminal operators are investing in inland connectivity to compete with established hubs and capture growing container volumes. The initiative demonstrates how even secondary ports can become strategically important when paired with robust intermodal infrastructure, creating new opportunities for supply chain resilience and geographic diversification.