North Carolina Ports welcomed Mediterranean Shipping Company and its first direct container vessel call to the Port of Wilmington in more than seven years on Friday with the arrival of the MSC Kumsal.

The vessel’s arrival heralded a new weekly service that expands NC Ports access to ….access to Southeast Asia and South China, including port calls in Singapore, Xiamen, Yantian and Shanghai, China, Busan, Korea, Cristobal, Panama.

“This is an exciting day for North Carolina Ports, our customers, and the entire State. MSC is one of the most respected carriers in our industry and the addition of the Emerald Service expands our reach and opens markets and opportunities for our customers, a key strategic initiative,” said Brian Clark, Executive Director. “We look forward to demonstrating our best-in-class customer service and a long, productive partnership with MSC.”

“We’re proud to partner with MSC and are excited to welcome the Emerald Service,” said Hans Bean, Chief Commercial Officer. “This is what NC customers and businesses have been asking for – more transpacific service options and connectivity via Wilmington as their optimal gateway”