In a strategic move set to reshape trade dynamics across the African continent, Dubai-based logistics giant DP World has entered into a partnership with ITOCHU Corporation, one of Japan’s most prominent trading companies. The two sides signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on August 21, 2025, during the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) held in Yokohama, Japan.

This agreement marks the beginning of a collaborative effort to expand logistics services, strengthen supply chain infrastructure, and improve distribution capabilities throughout Sub-Saharan Africa. The goal is to unlock new market opportunities, particularly for Japanese companies looking to establish or scale their operations across the region.

A Shared Vision for Growth

Under the terms of the MoU, DP World and ITOCHU will jointly explore ways to enhance connectivity between African markets and the global supply chain. The initial areas of focus include fleet operations, logistics services, streamlining supply chain processes, and distributing goods such as food and essential commodities more efficiently.

This partnership brings together the logistical and infrastructural strength of DP World with the commercial expertise and deep market understanding of ITOCHU, forming a strong foundation to promote long-term trade cooperation between Africa and Japan.

DP World’s Expanding African Footprint

DP World currently operates in over 48 countries across Africa, leveraging a vast network of ports, terminals, warehouses, and road transport assets. Over the past few years, the company has invested more than $3 billion in the continent’s logistics infrastructure, with plans to inject an additional $3 billion over the next three to five years.

These investments are part of a broader strategy aimed at driving economic development, improving regional trade, and integrating African markets more effectively into global commerce.

ITOCHU’s Strategic Role

With decades of experience operating across Africa, ITOCHU brings a diverse business portfolio covering sectors such as textiles, machinery, energy, chemicals, food products, and consumer goods. Headquartered in Tokyo, the company is well-positioned to support Japanese firms seeking new opportunities in the African market.

By leveraging its vast trading network and industry-specific know-how, ITOCHU aims to facilitate smoother market entry and expansion for Japanese companies throughout Africa.

Leaders Speak on the Partnership

Beat Simon, Chief Operating Officer for Logistics at DP World, highlighted Africa’s growing importance in global trade and emphasized the potential of this partnership to create real value. According to him, combining DP World’s infrastructure capabilities with ITOCHU’s trading acumen will strengthen ties between Africa and Japan and deliver tangible economic benefits.

Shinya Ishizuka, CEO of the Africa Business Bloc at ITOCHU, expressed optimism that this agreement will lead to meaningful joint ventures and serve as a bridge between Japanese businesses and the African market. He emphasized the importance of building relationships that foster mutual growth and long-term collaboration.

Looking Ahead

This new alliance between DP World and ITOCHU is more than a business deal—it’s a forward-looking strategy to enhance regional development, improve logistics efficiency, and stimulate sustainable economic growth across Africa. As both companies begin exploring joint projects and investments, the partnership is expected to accelerate trade flows, create jobs, and provide more reliable access to essential goods and services.

In a world where supply chains are under constant pressure, this agreement sends a strong message about the power of international cooperation in building resilient and future-ready trade networks. For Africa, it’s another step forward in becoming a central player in global commerce.