Dar es Salaam. The Dar es Salaam Port has marked a historic milestone after receiving the state-of-the-art vehicle carrier, MV Grande Shanghai, which arrived from China on its maiden voyage.
Completed in July 2025, the vessel measures 220 metres in length and 38 metres in width, with a capacity to transport up to 9,000 vehicles.
On its inaugural journey, the ship discharged 1,624 units, including lorries, buses and smaller vehicles.
Speaking during the vessel’s reception on September 21, 2025, Abed Gallus Abed, Acting Director of Dar es Salaam Port, representing the Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) Director General, said the arrival of such a vessel reflects significant improvements made under the Sixth Phase Government, alongside private sector engagement.
He highlighted that investment in modern facilities has enabled the port to accommodate larger and more diverse vessels efficiently.
Elitunu Mallamia, Operations Manager at DP World Dar es Salaam, noted that market growth and enhanced port efficiency were key drivers behind the vessel’s arrival in the country.
The introduction of MV Grande Shanghai underscores Tanzania’s growing presence in the international trade landscape.
It is expected to boost government revenues, attract investment, and position Dar es Salaam as a regional hub for vehicle and cargo transportation in East Africa.
