MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company informs customers that both the container terminal and the general cargo terminal at the port of Beira are operational since last week, following the damage caused by Cyclone Idai.

MSC has been conducting cargo operations accordingly and has been working hard to minimize disruption to our customers. Ocean services were resumed and the port is accessible by road.

Cyclone Idai has resulted in tragedy across parts of Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Malawi and Madagascar and MSC expresses its sincere condolences and concerns for all those affected in its path and to those who continue to be affected. This includes our own employees, and their families, who have suffered during the events of the past two weeks.

Shippers should be aware that the port of Beira prepared in advance for the 14 March cyclone and much of the damage has been repaired both at the port and beyond:

• The Machipanda CFM railway line which connects Beira with Zimbabwe has been operational since 22 March and the first train was expected to arrive in Beira on 26 March
• The Sena line which connects Beira to Moatize (Tete) was fully operational early last week
• Many road repairs have been completed and overland traffic for the Port of Beira was flowing by 24 March
• The fuel terminal at Beira port is operational
• Customs is open
• Communications are in general much improved

Despite this positive update, some facilities such as warehousing remain impacted.

MSC, along with MSC-owned logistics business MEDLOG, continues to support intergovernmental organisations and international aid groups by providing shipping and logistics services. This includes the provision of containers, as well as space on ships for food imports, as part of the overall relief effort.