Agreement focuses on connectivity, fleet and supply chain optimization, and distribution of commodities and food products, with support for Japanese firms entering African markets.
Strategic MoU for sub-Saharan growth
DP World (site) has signed a memorandum of understanding with Japan’s ITOCHU Corporation (site) to enhance logistics, supply chain infrastructure, and distribution capabilities across sub-Saharan Africa. Both companies will explore opportunities to enhance connectivity and market access across Africa, including support for Japanese businesses seeking to establish or grow their presence on the continent.
Initial workstreams: Fleet, supply chains, distribution
According to reports, early discussions are centered on fleet and logistics operations, supply chain optimization, and the distribution of commodities and food products. These areas are positioned as the initial focus of the partnership under the MoU.
Signatories and forum
Economy Middle East reports that the agreement was formalized during the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) in Yokohama, Japan. The signing involved Beat Simon, Group Chief Operating Officer of Logistics at DP World, alongside senior executives from ITOCHU Corporation.
A Coming Together of Grand Proportions
DP World is active in 48 countries across Africa, with a network of ports, terminals and logistics assets that includes warehouses and trucks. The company has invested over $3 billion in infrastructure development to date, with an additional $3 billion planned over the next three to five years.
ITOCHU’s extensive exposure in commodities, wholesale trade and consumer goods across Africa, with a portfolio spanning textiles, machinery, energy, chemicals, foods and general consumer goods represent an unrivalled opportunity. The companies frame the collaboration as combining DP World’s infrastructure and logistics expertise with ITOCHU’s commercial reach.
Executive Commentary
Beat Simon, DP World’s Group Chief Operating Officer, Logistics, said: “Africa represents one of the most dynamic growth frontiers for global trade. This collaboration reflects a shared vision to unlock value by combining our infrastructure and logistics expertise with Itochu’s commercial experience to create deeper connections between Africa and Japan.”
Shinya Ishizuka, CEO of Africa Bloc at ITOCHU Corporation, said of the agreement, “We hope that this collaboration will not only lead to further projects between the two parties, but also serve as a bridge between Japanese companies seeking to expand into Africa and the African market.”
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