Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) is seeking to expand its presence in Italy’s port infrastructure sector, with its industrial logistics subsidiary MVN applying for a 30-year concession covering nearly 21 hectares at the Port of Piombino.
The North Tyrrhenian Port Authority has initiated a public concession procedure following MVN’s application for two adjoining areas at Darsena Nord, covering a combined 209,465 sq m.
The proposed development is envisaged as a major industrial logistics hub handling heavy industrial equipment, steel components, project cargo and breakbulk shipments. It would also support pre-assembly, cargo staging and related logistics activities.
The project is linked to the expansion plans of US industrial technology group Baker Hughes. Tuscany’s regional government confirmed that MVN is working as a logistics partner to support Baker Hughes’ plans to expand its manufacturing and assembly operations in the region.
The proposed concession comprises a northern area of 95,408 sq m and an additional 114,057 sq m covering the former steelworks mineral storage site.
The port authority has invited competing applications, allowing other industrial, shipbuilding and logistics operators to submit proposals. The indicative annual concession fee has been set at approximately €465,000 (US$518,000), subject to competitive offers.
However, the proposed development remains subject to environmental clearance, planning approvals and the release of the former mineral storage area for redevelopment. The authority has set April 14, 2027, as the deadline for resolving key outstanding procedures.
MSC entered MVN through its logistics arm Medlog in 2024, acquiring a 51% stake in the Milan-based company. The investment established a dedicated industrial logistics platform focused on warehousing, heavy cargo handling and multimodal transportation.
The Piombino proposal follows an October 26 initiative by the port authority to reconfigure Darsena Nord, including a 105-metre extension of its northern quay and the development of a new western dock.
The concession has not yet been awarded, and MVN has not disclosed the proposed investment value.