DP World announces Bharat Africa Setu with the aim of doubling India-Africa trade

DP World, a leading global provider of smart end-to-end supply chain solutions, today announced the launch of the Bharat Africa Setu. This initiative is being developed under the guidance of the Government of India’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry and Ministry of External Affairs. This platform will provide Indian businesses access to robust warehousing, trade finance, and distribution networks—fuelling south-south cooperation and inclusive growth. It will connect India and Africa through sea and air connectivity between ports, economic zones and logistics parks operated by DP World in both geographies.

 The Bharat Africa Setu will provide Indian exporters with access to 53 African countries where DP World already has a strong logistics footprint, connecting to 260,000 points of sale. 

His Excellency Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of DP World unveiled the ‘Bharat Africa Setu’ initiative in the presence of Shri Piyush Goyal, Honourable Minister of Commerce and Industry, Government of India and other dignitaries at the Dubai-India Business Forum in Mumbai.

Africa imports approximately USD 430 billion worth of goods from various countries, presenting a significant market for global exporters. Currently, India exports USD 28 billion worth of goods to Africa, accounting for 6.5% of Africa’s total imports. This offers a significant opportunity for India’s export economy to grow its share to 12% by 2030.

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 & branding, packaging, logistics, testing & certification services and reduce cash flow constraints. Additionally, it will also facilitate ease in compliance with regulatory processes, licensing requirements, and applying for Government approvals.

Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri. Piyush Goyal, said,”... 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.”

Speaking about the revolutionary trade initiative, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of DP World, said: “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, 203 warehouses spanning 1.5+ million sqm and deep expertise in freight operations, logistics management and market access capabilities.

By integrating these services, DP World offers Indian businesses smart and resilient supply chain solutions, can help insulate trade from global disruptions and enable them to thrive in the African market.