DP World and Japan’s ITOCHU Corporation have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to expand logistics, supply chain infrastructure, and distribution networks across sub-Saharan Africa.
The agreement, formalized during the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9), was signed by Beat Simon, Group Chief Operating Officer for Logistics at DP World, alongside senior ITOCHU executives.
The partnership will prioritize strengthening connectivity and market access across the continent while supporting Japanese companies looking to establish or grow operations in Africa. Initial discussions are focused on fleet and logistics operations, supply chain optimization, and the distribution of food products and commodities.
Building stronger connections
DP World, which operates in 48 countries across Africa through its network of ports, terminals, warehouses, and trucking assets, has already invested more than $3 billion in regional infrastructure. The company has pledged to commit an additional $3 billion over the next three to five years to boost intra-African trade and link African markets more effectively with global supply chains.
Headquartered in Tokyo, ITOCHU has long-standing business interests in Africa spanning commodities, wholesale trade, consumer goods, textiles, energy, and machinery. The corporation has positioned itself as a key partner for Japanese firms entering the African market.
“Africa represents one of the most dynamic growth frontiers for global trade. This collaboration with ITOCHU combines our logistics expertise with their commercial reach to build stronger connections between Africa and Japan,” said DP World’s Beat Simon.
Shinya Ishizuka, CEO of ITOCHU’s Africa Bloc, added: “We expect this partnership to open doors for further projects and act as a bridge for Japanese businesses expanding into Africa.”
The MoU lays the groundwork for deeper collaboration between the two companies, with a shared goal of strengthening supply chains and promoting sustainable trade growth across the continent.