Mozambique is set to strengthen its position in international trade after global logistics company DP World announced a new weekly shipping service connecting China with Maputo and other major African ports.

The new service, called China Africa Link, is expected to begin in late November 2026. It will connect Shanghai, Ningbo and Nansha in China with Port Klang in Malaysia, Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and Maputo in Mozambique before returning to Shanghai through Singapore.

The route is expected to transport a wide range of goods, including machinery, electronics, construction materials and automotive components from China. African exports such as agricultural products, minerals and other commodities will also be carried.

The development comes as DP World continues investing in Mozambique's maritime infrastructure. The company is undertaking a US$165 million expansion of the Maputo container terminal, a project designed to more than double its cargo-handling capacity.

More frequent shipping connections could create new opportunities for Mozambican exporters, importers and logistics businesses by improving access to international markets and supply chains.

The new route could strengthen Maputo's role as a regional trade gateway, particularly for businesses seeking more reliable connections between Asian markets and Southern Africa.

However, the commercial impact will depend on the service's implementation, shipping demand and the ability of local businesses to take advantage of the additional connectivity.