August 4, 2025 – Geneva — Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), the world’s largest container carrier, has unveiled a new standalone service called “Alpaca,” set to begin operations in September 2025, with a clear focus on strengthening trade links between Asia and Peru.
The Alpaca service aims to provide faster, more reliable connectivity between major ports in China and South Korea and the South American west coast, especially Peru’s Port of Callao. The move comes as part of MSC’s broader strategy to bolster its presence in the Latin American market and cater to the growing demand for efficient logistics solutions for perishable and high-value goods.
Fast & Direct Asia–Peru Trade Route
The weekly service will follow a carefully structured rotation:
Ningbo (China) → Busan (South Korea) → Callao (Peru) → Arica (Chile) → Iquique (Chile) → San Antonio (Chile) → Nansha (China) → Hong Kong → Ningbo.
By directly connecting Asia to Peru and other key Chilean ports, the Alpaca service promises market-leading transit times, offering exporters an efficient solution for time-sensitive shipments such as fresh produce, seafood, and refrigerated goods.
Supporting Latin American Exporters
“The launch of the Alpaca service is a major milestone in MSC’s commitment to Latin America. It not only strengthens Callao’s position as a regional logistics hub but also offers exporters in Chile and Bolivia a more reliable path to Asia,” said an MSC representative.
The service will leverage Smart Reefer technology, enabling real-time monitoring and optimal climate control throughout the voyage. This is expected to benefit exporters of cherries, avocados, blueberries, and other perishables—commodities whose freshness and speed to market are critical for international competitiveness.
Enhancing Bolivia’s Global Access
In addition to supporting Peruvian and Chilean exporters, the service is also positioned to benefit Bolivia, a landlocked country that relies heavily on Chilean ports like Arica and Iquique for its maritime trade. The Alpaca route will offer Bolivian traders faster and more consistent access to Asian markets.
Complementing MSC’s North Peru Feeder
The new service complements MSC’s North Peru Feeder, which was launched in June 2024. That service connects the northern Peruvian ports of Salaverry and Paita to Panama and Colombia, allowing access to Europe, North America, and Far East trade lanes. Together, these services form a robust network tailored for the growing export ambitions of the Andean region.
Outlook
With global supply chains continuing to shift and diversify, MSC’s investment in the Alpaca service reflects confidence in the region’s economic potential—particularly in the agri-export and manufacturing sectors. As demand for Peruvian and Chilean products continues to grow in Asia, the Alpaca service is set to become a vital artery in the transpacific trade network.
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