The world leader in container shipping, MSC, planned its first port call to Ukraine since the start of the full-scale war, but these plans were disrupted due to corruption issues.

According to the Association of International Freight Forwarders of Ukraine (AMEU), the cancellation was caused by groundless cargo inspections and customs clearance delays. The cargos are being blocked, leading to significant additional costs of up to 2-3 thousand dollars.

AMEU called on the authorities to intervene and help streamline processes, as MSC's refusal to enter the port jeopardizes regular container service and negatively impacts the country's economy.

The cooperation was expected to establish feeder connectivity between Odessa and the major Turkish port of Tekirdag, contributing to the development of Ukrainian logistics. However, without prompt action from customs authorities, these prospects are now at risk.