On the morning of September 23, 2025, Hai Phong International Container Terminal (HTIT) – a member port within the Hai Phong Port system – successfully received the MSC KALINA, a container vessel operated by MSC. This is the largest container ship ever to call at the Lach Huyen deep-sea port cluster, marking an important step forward in operational capacity and reaffirming HTIT’s position on the international maritime map.

The MSC KALINA, registered under the Panamanian flag, boasts impressive specifications: an overall length of 366.06 metres, a draft of 12.2 metres upon berthing, and a deadweight tonnage of 162,867 DWT. Handling a vessel of this scale required highly synchronised coordination among operational teams, equipment, and port infrastructure.

The fact that MSC – one of the world’s leading container shipping lines – deployed a large mother vessel such as MSC KALINA to HTIT demonstrates confidence in the port’s infrastructure and operational capacity. From channel depth, berths, and container yards to advanced handling equipment and a skilled workforce, HTIT meets the highest technical standards and is fully prepared for international shipping routes.

The event carries significant technical and economic implications. From a professional standpoint, HTIT has proven its ability to safely accommodate and operate large mother vessels, meeting international standards in berth allocation, towage, container handling, and maritime safety. Economically, the vessel’s thousands of TEUs contribute to increased cargo throughput, generate substantial revenue from stevedoring, yard storage, and transport services, while stimulating the regional logistics ecosystem, including transport, warehousing, customs services, and shipping agencies.

The successful call of MSC KALINA also reflects the long-term efforts of HTIT and Hai Phong Port in investing, upgrading infrastructure, modernising equipment, and applying advanced operational management technologies. This strategic move enhances the competitiveness of the Lach Huyen port cluster, attracts more mainline services, reduces transshipment costs, and shortens cargo transit times for importers and exporters in Northern Vietnam.

The arrival of MSC KALINA is therefore considered a milestone, affirming HTIT’s capacity to handle mother vessels and strengthening its international standing. Going forward, HTIT will continue to invest in infrastructure, train high-quality human resources, and optimise operational procedures to ensure efficiency, safety, and seamless service for large vessels, contributing to the sustainable development of Hai Phong’s seaport system and Vietnam’s foreign trade.

Hai Phong Port