DHL injects 300 million euros to boost trade in Africa

DHL Group ( www.DHL.com ) announces a historic investment of more than €300 million in Sub-Saharan Africa, reinforcing its commitment to a region that has become a key player in global trade. This multi-year investment, deployed across DHL Express, DHL Global Forwarding and DHL Supply Chain, aims to expand infrastructure, improve logistics capabilities and create new opportunities for local businesses, particularly in the e-commerce, perishables, energy and life sciences sectors.

Sub-Saharan Africa is experiencing unprecedented trade growth . According to Global Connectedness Tracker , the region saw a 10% increase in trade value in the first half of 2025, ahead of North America (7%) and Latin America (5%). Forecasts indicate average annual trade growth of 4.3% between 2025 and 2029, making Africa the second fastest-growing region after Central and South Asia.

“Africa is at a critical juncture in its commercial development,” said John Pearson, CEO of DHL Express . “Despite global challenges, the continent is demonstrating remarkable resilience. Our investment reflects our confidence in its potential and our commitment to supporting African businesses, from SMEs to large corporations, towards greater competitiveness on the international stage.”

DHL Express will focus its efforts on:

• Optimizing air connections and extending coverage in emerging cities, relying on its dedicated air network , unique in sub-Saharan Africa.
• Improving Africa-Europe and Africa-Asia connections , with particular emphasis on growing markets such as Ethiopia and Nigeria .

“Our goal is to get closer to our customers and simplify cross-border shipping,” said Hennie Heymans, CEO of DHL Express Sub-Saharan Africa . “Businesses need predictable lead times, consistent deliveries, and support tailored to local realities. By strengthening our capabilities, we are helping them expand into new markets.”

DHL Global Forwarding will invest in:

• Strengthening industrial solutions , particularly for energy and projects linked to the global energy transition .
• Perishable goods logistics , essential for agricultural and horticultural exporters.
• Life sciences and healthcare temperature-sensitive and specialized transport solutions

“Businesses are facing stricter regulations and evolving business patterns,” said Amadou Diallo, CEO of DHL Global Forwarding Middle East and Africa . “We are strengthening our digital tools and local expertise to provide full visibility of shipments, from sender to receiver.”

DHL Supply Chain , for its part, will expand its capabilities by:

• Temperature-sensitive logistics for healthcare.
• Specialized transport solutions , meeting the growing demand for outsourced logistics , particularly in South Africa.

“In South Africa, the sophistication of supply chains is creating increased demand for specialized logistics services,” said Orkun Saruhanoglu, CEO of DHL Supply Chain Middle East and Africa . “We help our customers improve the quality of their services, manage risks and grow with confidence.”

DHL is also involved in programs to support SMEs and promote sustainable trade :

• GoTrade : an initiative providing SMEs with customs training and expertise to access international markets.
• Pilot projects for renewable energy and alternative fuels at its facilities.
• Digitization of processes through AI , route optimization and customs tools to facilitate cross-border trade.

With unparalleled coverage across the continent, DHL Group is positioning itself as a key partner in connecting Africa to the world and supporting its growth.

“Our vision is clear: to facilitate trade, reduce barriers and enable African businesses to thrive on the global stage,” concludes John Pearson.

About DHL Group DHL is the world's leading logistics company, operating in more than 220 countries and territories . Find out more at www.DHL.com .