Barloworld Logistics to help Asian firms in their African supply chain

SOUTH AFRICA's Barloworld Logistics says it is "well placed to help with the opportunities that will develop across the continent and on key trade lanes" after China announced to 48 African nations that it plans new measures to promote further co-operation with Africa.

Speaking at the 4th Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing, Chinese spokesman described initiatives that include development assistance, credit and financing, training and trade co-operation.

Last year, trade between China and Africa hit a record high of US$166.3 billion, an increase of 83 per cent from 2009. China's direct investment in Africa in 2011 reached $14.7 billion, up 60 per cent when compared to 2009.

"China is Africa's largest trading partner after the EU, and demand and the new initiatives announced at FOCAC demonstrate the country's long-term commitment to supporting development across the continent," said William Tang, managing director for Barloworld Logistics' Far East business.

"We are also seeing Chinese companies investing in projects across a range of industries including energy, aviation, construction and manufacturing throughout Africa. Demand for Chinese goods and products has also grown among African consumers," he said.

The company statement adds, according to the 2012 supply chain foresight survey, a vast range of industries expect growth in Africa, which is expected to boost demand for cargo services across most industries over the next five years.