Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) is in advanced discussions to acquire a significant stake in Hambantota International Port, according to multiple industry sources, as the world’s largest container shipping line accelerates its global port investment strategy and strengthens its presence in the Indian Ocean region.
The proposed investment is being negotiated with China Merchants Port Holdings (CMPort) and the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA), sources familiar with the discussions said.
At present, CMPort holds an 85% stake in Hambantota International Port under a 99-year concession agreement signed in 2017, while the remaining 15% is owned by the SLPA. Industry sources expect an official announcement on the proposed transaction in the coming weeks, although neither MSC nor the parties involved have publicly confirmed the negotiations.
The move forms part of MSC’s wider strategy to expand its terminal footprint across key maritime trade corridors following its exit from the 2M Alliance and its transition toward an independent global shipping network. The company has been actively investing in ports and logistics infrastructure through its terminal operating arm, Terminal Investment Limited (TiL), to secure greater control over cargo flows and improve service reliability.
Hambantota Port occupies a strategically important location along one of the world’s busiest east-west shipping routes, just a few nautical miles from the main international sea lane connecting Asia, the Middle East and Europe. The deep-water port has increasingly positioned itself as a hub for vehicle transshipment, breakbulk cargo, energy-related shipments and industrial development.
An MSC investment would significantly enhance the port’s role as a regional logistics hub while complementing the carrier’s growing network of terminal assets worldwide. It could also strengthen Hambantota’s competitiveness alongside the nearby Port of Colombo, one of South Asia’s largest container transshipment hubs.
Industry analysts believe MSC is recalibrating its hub-and-spoke operations in the Indian Ocean to support expanding Asia-Europe, Middle East and Africa services. A strategic position at Hambantota would provide the carrier with additional flexibility for transshipment operations, vessel deployment and future cargo growth.
The development comes amid increasing competition among global shipping lines to secure ownership or long-term interests in port infrastructure as carriers seek greater integration across shipping, terminals and inland logistics. Major container lines have been expanding terminal investments to enhance supply chain resilience and reduce dependence on third-party port operators.
If concluded, the Hambantota investment would mark another significant addition to MSC’s growing portfolio of port assets and reinforce Sri Lanka’s importance as a strategic maritime gateway in the Indian Ocean. Neither MSC, CMPort nor the Sri Lanka Ports Authority has officially commented on the reported negotiations.
