We are planning to set up a logistics complex in Ethiopia -DP World Chairman Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem

Ports operators says it has signed a number of agreements with Ethiopia

DP World is planning to set up a logistics facility in Ethiopia to facilitate transport of goods to landlocked countries in Africa, DP World Group Chairman & CEO and Chairman of Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation Sultan Bin Sulayem has revealed.

“We are planning to set up a logistics complex in Ethiopia where goods can be transported from the port to it, and from there it can be transported to different African landlocked countries. We have signed a number of agreements with Ethiopia that will promote our friendly relationships with them. Business groups in Dubai can always benefit from DP World’s presence in different countries including Rwanda and Egypt where re-exporting opportunities are abundant,” Bin Sulayem said during an open dialogue with trade and business groups in Dubai.

“The world is witnessing rapid changes and developments in trade. There is now more focus on fair trade on the agenda and external policy of countries like the USA, which means protective measures will be taken to curb the flow of goods from the European Union and China into the American market. There are international efforts to reach for a fair and balanced trade, and these developments and changes have put us face to face with new challenges, but we have learnt from our wise leadership that challenges can be turned into opportunities.”

“We carefully study developments in international trade to always find alternative markets, and this can be sustained through enhancing our strategic partnerships” he added.

Dubai-owned DP World, one of the world’s biggest port operators, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

DP World, the government of Ethiopia, and the government of Somaliland partnered this year to develop the Port of Berbera on Africa’s east coast.

The UAE is building a highway connecting the port to the Ethiopian border as part of other commitments to invest in Somaliland infrastructure.

Somaliland broke away from Somalia in 1991 but has not gained international recognition and has acted as a de-facto state since then.

Ethiopia is separately partnering with Djibouti and neighbouring Somalia to develop ports in their countries.

DP World launched legal proceedings against the government of Djibouti earlier this year after the government abruptly ended its contract to operate Dorelah port.

SOURCE: WAM & Reuters