DP World has entered into a memorandum of understanding with Itochu, one of Japan’s largest trading firms, to enhance logistics services and supply chain infrastructure in Sub-Saharan Africa.
The agreement was signed at the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9), held in Yokohama, Japan, by Simon Bet, the Chief Operating Officer of DP World’s logistics division, alongside senior executives from Itochu.
The memorandum aims to explore various opportunities for improving trade connectivity and market access in Africa while supporting Japanese companies looking to establish or expand their presence on the continent. Initial discussions are focusing on fleet operations, logistics services, supply chain optimization, and the distribution of goods and food products.
DP World has a presence in over 48 countries across Africa supported by an extensive network of ports, terminals, and logistics assets, including warehouses and trucks.
The company has invested more than $3 billion in infrastructure development, with plans to invest an additional $3 billion over the next three to five years.
Itochu, based in Tokyo, has decades of experience in commodities, wholesale trade, and consumer goods across Africa. Its portfolio spans textiles, machinery, energy, chemicals, food, and general consumer goods, providing a solid foundation to assist Japanese companies aiming to expand in Africa.
Simon Bet stated that Africa represents one of the most dynamic growth fronts in global trade, and this collaboration with Itochu reflects a shared vision to create added value by combining their expertise in infrastructure and logistics with Itochu’s commercial acumen to build deeper connections between Africa and Japan.
Shinya Ishizuka, CEO of the Africa Block at Itochu, expressed hope that this partnership would contribute to enhancing projects between both parties and building bridges for communication among Japanese companies interested in entering African markets.