The landlocked West African nation of Mali is confronting severe logistical challenges after global shipping giant MSC announced a full suspension of cargo bookings destined for the country. The decision, attributed to persistent security risks and operational disruptions caused by fuel shortages, casts a shadow over Mali’s import-export trade, which relies heavily on neighboring ports for transit.
As an inland country, Mali typically routes its goods through coastal hubs such as Abidjan in Ivory Coast, Dakar in Senegal, or other regional ports like Tema (Ghana), Lomé (Togo), and Conakry (Guinea), before transporting them overland. MSC’s suspension applies to all Mali-bound cargo, regardless of the final discharge port.
For existing bookings confirmed before November 6, 2025, MSC outlined three options for affected clients under Clause 19 of its bill of lading and sea waybill terms:
- Performance Delivery: Efforts will be made to deliver goods to the contracted port or destination.
- Transit Suspension: Shipments may be temporarily halted and stored ashore or onboard until conditions permit resumption.
- Alternative Storage: Goods will be held at MSC-designated secure locations after discharge, with costs borne by cargo owners until overland transport resumes.
MSC stated it is monitoring the situation closely and will notify clients once services resume. The move has raised concerns among industry observers about potential ripple effects on transit hubs like Abidjan and Dakar, with fears that other carriers may follow MSC’s lead, further straining West Africa’s logistics networks.
In contrast, French shipping firm CMA CGM has reportedly maintained its Mali operations, though future adjustments remain possible depending on developments.