DHL looks to boosting market share in India-Africa trade

DHL's Global Forwarding division is focusing on Africa as a new engine of growth in India given that trade between India and Africa has swelled from US$9.9 billion in 2004-05 to $39 billion in 2008-09.

"DHL Global Forwarding sees vast potential in the India-Africa trade lane," a company statement said. The announcement comes as India and Africa have expressed a commitment to reduce trade barriers and encourage bilateral trade.

Speaking at the World Economic Forum in New Delhi earlier this month, Amadou Diallo, chief executive officer, Africa and South Asia Pacific of DHL Global Forwarding, said: "Africa is a key emerging market with air cargo and ocean freight volumes between India and Africa expected to grow 9.8 per cent and 9.2 per cent CAGR from 2009-2015, respectively. We are optimistic of DHL's growth potential in the India-Africa trade lane."

The company noted that oil and gas products continue to fuel growth in Indo-African trade, with India investing $5.7 billion in Africa between 1996 and 2007, and its largest investments being in the oil and gas, telecommunications, transport and information technology sectors. Petroleum products accounted for 22.2 per cent of India's total exports to Africa from 2008-09.

"Having established our expertise in several key sectors, including the oil and gas, telecommunications and IT sectors, DHL is well-positioned to leverage our capabilities and know-how in this area and help businesses extend their footprint in both expansive markets," said Mr Diallo.

DHL Global Forwarding has so far set up India Desks in 10 African nations and plans to establish additional desks next year, it added.
(Source:www.schednet.com)