DHL to Invest $348 Million to Boost Trade and Logistics Across Africa

Global logistics giant DHL Group has announced a major $348 million (€300 million) investment to strengthen trade and logistics infrastructure across Sub-Saharan Africa.

The multi-year plan covers all of DHL’s main divisions — DHL Express, DHL Global Forwarding, and DHL Supply Chain — and aims to expand aviation capacity, modernize logistics hubs, and bring faster delivery services to new cities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

“Africa is at a pivotal moment in its trade journey,” said John Pearson, CEO of DHL Express. “Despite global volatility, the continent continues to show resilience and momentum. Our investment reflects confidence in Africa’s trajectory and DHL’s commitment to enabling the trade flows that drive inclusive growth.”

Key Focus Areas

Infrastructure upgrades to improve air and ground connectivity between Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Better cold-chain logistics for agriculture, horticulture, and healthcare industries.
Faster and simpler customs processes to cut delays and support smoother cross-border trade.

Why It Matters

According to DHL data, Sub-Saharan Africa recorded the world’s fastest trade-value growth in the first half of 2025 — up 10% year-on-year, ahead of North America (7%) and South America (5%).

The region’s trade volume is expected to grow by 4.3% annually through 2029, making it the second-fastest-growing region globally, behind South and Central Asia.

DHL says that better logistics will help African businesses — from small exporters to large corporations — compete globally through reliable delivery times, modern supply chains, and localized expertise.

Broader Impact

For African economies, the move represents one of the strongest private-sector commitments to the continent’s trade future. Improved logistics could help shift exports away from raw materials toward manufactured and high-value goods, and boost intra-African trade under AfCFTA.

For international investors, DHL’s expansion shows renewed confidence in Africa’s potential — and recognition that logistical gaps such as weak transport links and fragmented customs systems are now being addressed at scale.

What to Watch

The speed of DHL’s rollout in smaller, fast-growing cities.
Improvements in delivery reliability, cost efficiency, and export visibility.
Competitor reactions — and whether this triggers wider logistics investment across Africa.
Growth in export diversification, especially in agriculture, healthcare, and manufacturing.

DHL’s $348 million bet marks a turning point: Africa is no longer just a destination for global trade — it is becoming one of its driving forces.