SP-SSA International Terminal (SSIT) has achieved a new operational milestone by safely and efficiently completing the handling of MSC ARINA, a vessel deployed on MSC’s Sentosa service, with a total throughput of nearly 10,000 TEUs.
With a capacity of 23,656 TEUs and a length of nearly 400 meters, M/V MSC ARINA is among the largest container vessels currently operating on international shipping routes. The handling volume achieved during this call ranks among the highest ever recorded at SSIT, further demonstrating the terminal’s capability to efficiently handle large mainline container vessels at the Cai Mep – Thi Vai port cluster.
Successfully Handling More Than 10 Vessels up to 250,000 DWT
In addition to this throughput milestone, SSIT has also made significant progress in enhancing its capability to accommodate next-generation large container vessels.
Following the approval by the Vietnam Maritime and Inland Waterway Administration of the maritime safety plan for laden container vessels of up to 250,000 DWT calling at SSIT in early May 2026, the terminal has successfully and safely handled more than 10 vessels in this tonnage category, each carrying substantial cargo volumes.
This achievement not only demonstrates SSIT’s operational and marine-handling capabilities but also contributes to strengthening the competitiveness of the Cai Mep – Thi Vai port cluster in attracting services deployed with ultra-large container vessels.
At the same time, the efficient handling of vessels of up to 250,000 DWT delivers practical benefits to shipping lines, cargo owners and other stakeholders by optimizing transportation costs, improving supply-chain efficiency, and enhancing the attractiveness of the region for international import, export and transshipment cargo.
Strengthening Vietnam–United States Trade Connectivity
This milestone comes against the backdrop of continued positive growth in Vietnam–United States trade. The United States remains Vietnam’s largest export market, while demand for transportation services on trans-Pacific routes continues to remain strong.
MSC’s Sentosa service plays an important role in providing a direct connection between the Cai Mep – Thi Vai area and U.S. West Coast ports. MSC’s continued deployment of container vessels with capacities exceeding 23,000 TEUs reflects the carrier’s confidence in the growth potential of the Vietnamese market, as well as the increasingly important role of Cai Mep – Thi Vai in the global container shipping network.
Continuing Investment to Support Long-Term Growth
Alongside enhancing its operational capabilities, SSIT continues to invest in infrastructure and equipment to meet the evolving requirements of the global container fleet and the growing trend toward larger vessels.
Recently, SSIT signed an investment contract for two new-generation Ship-to-Shore (STS) cranes with a 76-meter outreach, capable of serving vessels carrying up to 26 rows of containers. Scheduled to be commissioned in 2027, these cranes will contribute to improving terminal productivity and strengthening SSIT’s capability to serve next-generation ultra-large container vessels in the future.
Mr. Phan Hoang Vu, General Director of SSIT, said:
"We sincerely appreciate MSC’s trust and partnership, as well as the support from the relevant authorities and our valued partners. Achieving nearly 10,000 TEUs during the MSC ARINA call, together with the successful handling of container vessels of up to 250,000 DWT, is a strong testament to the continuous efforts of the entire SSIT team to enhance our operational capabilities and service quality."
“SSIT will continue to invest in infrastructure, equipment, and human resources to better meet the needs of international shipping lines, while contributing to the sustainable development and competitiveness of the Cai Mep – Thi Vai port cluster and Vietnam’s maritime industry."
For media inquiries, please contact:
Ms. Le Nguyet (Ms. Moon)
Commercial Manager – SSIT
Phone: +84 0909.358.029
Email: Nguyet.le@ssit.com.vn