DP World and the Indian government have today [11 April 2025] announced the launch of the ‘Bharat Africa Setu’ – described as “a transformative trade initiative designed to double India-Africa trade and strengthen South-South cooperation”.
The initiative is being supported by India’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and Ministry of External Affairs. It will “connect DP World’s ports, economic zones and logistics parks across both regions”. According to DP World, it will give Indian exporters access to 53 African countries and 260,000 points of sale through a fully integrated trade ecosystem.
DP World operates 10 ports and terminals, three economic zones, and over 200 warehouses across Africa, with expertise in freight operations, logistics management and market access. The Bharat Africa Setu is designed to integrate physical infrastructure with value-added services to “to create a seamless trade ecosystem for the two regions”.
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, group chairman and CEO of DP World, said: “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.”
Shri Piyush Goyal, India’s minister of commerce and industry, commented: “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.”
Of the US$430 billion worth of goods currently imported to Africa, India accounts for approximately 6.5% ($28bn) at the moment. by 2030, it is expected that – as a result of the Bharat Africa Setu – this figure will rise to 12%.
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