Gianluigi Aponte is an Italian businessman, the self-made billionaire co-founder, co-owner, and Chairman of Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), which is the world's leading cargo carrier (surpassing Maersk). Born in Sant'Agnello, Italy, in 1940, his career is rooted in the maritime tradition; he was a Neapolitan captain by training, graduating from the Istituto Tecnico Nautico Statale Nino Bixio.

Aponte entered the shipping industry in 1970 with his wife, Rafaela Aponte-Diamant (a Swiss woman of Israeli origin whom he met when she was a passenger on a boat he captained). The newly formed company owned a single vessel that shipped cargo between Europe and Africa. This commitment to hard work and maritime efficiency was the foundation for his colossal global empire.

Gianluigi Aponte's strategic vision centered on aggressive expansion in the global cargo industry. In 1970, he bought his first vessel, the MV Patricia, and began trading to the Horn of Africa. The company expanded exponentially, mastering the container shipping business.

His diversification included: launching MSC Crociere (MSC Cruises) in 1987 (now a major global cruise line) and acquiring ferry companies (SNAV). By 2022, MSC surpassed Maersk Line to become the world's leading cargo carrier, controlling over 300 shipping routes and employing around 200,000 people worldwide. Aponte retired as CEO and President in 2014, succeeded by his son, Diego Aponte, but remained Chairman. He has received numerous honors, including a knighthood (Order of Merit for Labour) from the Italian President. His multi-billion dollar fortune is tied to the massive, stable global demand for container shipping and logistics.

Gianluigi Aponte's social impact is massive and structural, stemming from MSC's role in facilitating over 20 percent of global containerized trade—a foundational component of the world economy. The company provides stable, high-value jobs for over 200,000 people globally.

His personal philanthropy supports various educational and community initiatives. His career is a testament to the profitability of disciplined, hands-on industrial entrepreneurship in the high-stakes global shipping sector.

Gianluigi Aponte maintains the professional, formal style of a shipping magnate and captain. His attire is consistently formal and high-quality, favoring tailored suits. His aesthetic is one of stability and immense corporate authority, reflecting his command over the world's largest container shipping line.

Residing in Geneva, Switzerland (due to his wife's Swiss origin), his luxury is the immense security and financial reward derived from his multi-billion dollar fortune. His life is dedicated to maritime commerce, logistics mastery, and family continuity.