The government of Mauritius is in advanced negotiations with Maersk and Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) to manage the Cargo Handling Corporation Ltd (CHCL) at Port-Louis. According to sources, an agreement is expected to be signed soon, with Maersk and MSC taking a 40% stake in CHCL, while the Mauritian government retains 60%. The deal aims to improve container management, reduce congestion, and increase competitiveness in the region.
Discussions between the government and Maersk- MSC began in March 2026, led by then Deputy Prime Minister Paul Bérenger. The talks focused on restructuring and developing container handling activities. Maersk reportedly wanted a larger stake, but the government declined, considering port operations strategic to the economy. A meeting at the Prime Minister's office on September 22, 2026, reviewed progress, with Navin Ramgoolam, Kailash Ruhee, and Reza Uteem in attendance.
The next step in the process is the appointment of a Transaction Advisor from one of the Big Four accounting firms: Deloitte, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Ernst & Young, or KPMG. The advisor will evaluate the value of CHCL shares and facilitate the transaction. Maersk's involvement goes beyond a simple investment, as the company plans to bring new equipment, expertise, and contribute to port expansion.
Maersk has assured that no layoffs are planned, and new recruitment in Mauritius is expected due to increased port activity. The goal is to enhance container management, reduce congestion, and boost Port-Louis's competitiveness in Africa. The partnership aims to leverage Maersk's global expertise in port management to improve operations at Port-Louis.
The Mauritian government has been seeking to develop its port infrastructure and increase efficiency. The partnership with Maersk and MSC is seen as a strategic move to achieve these goals. The Cargo Handling Corporation Ltd handles a significant volume of containers annually, and the investment is expected to improve the overall performance of the port.
The entry of Maersk into the Mauritian port sector is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy. The company has a strong reputation in the global shipping industry, and its involvement is likely to attract new business and investment to the port. The government has emphasized the importance of maintaining strategic control over port operations.
The agreement between the government, Maersk, and MSC is expected to be finalized soon, marking a significant development in the Mauritian port sector. The partnership will bring new expertise, equipment, and investment to Port-Louis, enhancing its competitiveness and efficiency. Key aspects of the deal include a 40% stake for Maersk and MSC, with the government retaining 60%, and a commitment to no layoffs and new recruitment.
Key points
- Maersk and MSC to take 40% stake in Cargo Handling Corporation Ltd
- Partnership aims to improve container management and reduce congestion at Port-Louis
- No layoffs planned, with new recruitment expected due to increased port activity
