DP World unveils ‘Bharat Africa Setu’ under a govt initiative, offering Indian exporters access to 53 African nations via its vast logistics network. Aims to boost India’s share in Africa’s $430B import market.
In a bid to significantly bolster trade ties between India and Africa, global ports and logistics giant DP World has officially launched its ambitious ‘Bharat Africa Setu’ initiative. Developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the Ministry of External Affairs, this strategic program aims to provide Indian businesses with comprehensive access to crucial trade infrastructure and services, including warehousing, trade finance, and extensive distribution networks across the African continent.
The Bharat Africa Setu will establish a connectivity bridge between India and Africa through integrated sea and air links connecting ports, economic zones, and logistics parks strategically operated by DP World in both regions. This enhanced connectivity is designed to streamline trade flows and reduce existing bottlenecks.
A key aspect of the initiative is the unprecedented access it will grant Indian exporters to a vast network spanning 53 African countries where DP World already possesses a strong logistics footprint. This network connects to an impressive 260,000 points of sale, opening up significant market opportunities for Indian goods.
The African continent represents a substantial import market, with annual imports totalling approximately USD 430 billion from various countries. Currently, India’s exports to Africa stand at USD 28 billion, accounting for a modest 6.5 percent of Africa’s total imports. The Bharat Africa Setu initiative is strategically designed to help India nearly double its share to 12 percent by the year 2030, unlocking substantial growth potential for India’s export economy.
In a company statement, DP World emphasised that “The Bharat Africa Setu will combine efficient physical infrastructure with value-added services – thus creating a holistic trade ecosystem. It will enable Indian manufacturers to display new and upcoming product concepts. It will further ensure ease of access to trade support services such as export finance, marketing and branding, packaging, logistics, testing & certification services and reduce cash flow constraints.” The initiative will also simplify compliance with regulatory processes, licensing requirements, and the application process for government approvals.
Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Piyush Goyal, hailed the launch, stating, “Africa holds immense promise as a strategic trade partner for India. To fully unlock this potential, it is essential to strengthen connectivity, reduce trade bottlenecks, and empower Indian businesses to access and thrive in Africa’s dynamic markets. The Bharat Africa Setu is a concrete step in this direction. By leveraging private sector innovation and investment, we are committed to developing an efficient, future-ready trade corridor that facilitates seamless export flows between India and Africa, fostering prosperity and growth on both sides of the Arabian Sea.”
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of DP World, echoed this sentiment, saying, “Africa has the potential to transform into a key player in the global economy, with trade and strategic partnerships serving as catalysts for the continent’s growth and prosperity. Our partnership with the Government of India to establish the ‘Bharat Africa Setu’ will open doors for Indian exporters to the vast opportunity in Africa by enhancing bilateral trade efficiency and improving market access.”
DP World’s extensive portfolio across Africa includes 10 ports and terminals, 3 economic zones, and 203 warehouses spanning over 1.5 million square metres. Coupled with their deep expertise in freight operations, logistics management, and market access capabilities, the ‘Bharat Africa Setu’ aims to provide Indian businesses with smart and resilient supply chain solutions. The company added that this integration of services can help insulate trade from global disruptions and enable Indian businesses to thrive in the African market.
Source: Logistics Outlook
