Sunday Edition | How to Trade With Africa – Weekly Newsletter (Edition #38)
Happy Mother’s Day to All the Incredible Mothers Across Africa and the Globe!
Before we dive into trade talk, let’s take a moment to salute the real Most Valuable Players (MVPs) — the moms. Whether you’re juggling logistics at work or at home (and let’s face it, many do both), this one’s for you. You keep families, communities, and even economies thriving. Today, we celebrate you!
Now, onto another group of behind-the-scenes power players — the Freight Forwarders and Clearing Agents shaping African and global trade.
The Invisible Engines of Global Trade
Let’s face it — global trade wouldn’t get past the first port without Freight Forwarders and Clearing Agents. These people are the backstage crew who make sure everything goes off without a hitch.
Freight Forwarders? Think of them as your trade travel agents. They book cargo, figure out the best routes, and deal with the avalanche of paperwork.
Clearing Agents? They’re your customs whisperers. They handle the rules, red tape, and border bureaucracy so you don’t have to.
Together, they’re the reason your coffee beans from Kenya, car parts from Japan, or cotton from Egypt arrive where and when they should — legally and on time.
Africa’s Logistics Glow-Up
Africa is having a logistics moment. Thanks to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), there’s a new buzz around moving goods within and beyond the continent.
Here’s what’s hot: The Middle East & Africa freight logistics market is expected to grow up to $235 billion by 2030. That’s serious movement.
AfCFTA intends to remove the hassle, lower tariffs, encourage fewer customs bottlenecks, and smoother cross-border processes. Intra-African trade could shoot up by over 80% in 15 years.
And the infrastructure? We’re seeing new roads, rail links, and cargo corridors that are finally connecting bit by bit, those landlocked gems to ports and profits.
South Africa’s Role: The Gateway, the Giant
Zoom in on South Africa and you’ll find a logistics juggernaut with tentacles across the continent.
Its freight sector alone could rake in nearly $20 billion by 2030. That’s not pocket change — it’s economic muscle.
South African freight forwarders are the bridge to global markets. Over 80% of the nation’s trade flows through their hands.
Yes, there are hurdles — crumbling infrastructure and a need for modernization — but reforms and billion-dollar investments are already paving the way.
Where SMMEs Come In: Big Chances for Small Players
Don’t let the big numbers fool you — there’s major room for small players. This space is wide open for SMMEs to get in, scale up, and win.
E-commerce is exploding, regional hubs are multiplying, and the demand for nimble, tech-savvy freight services is off the charts.
Events like the Transport Education Training Authority (TETA) 2025 Inaugural Forwarding and Clearing Summit TETA Website, SME Road Freight Summit are helping small logistics firms get the insights, tools, and exposure they need to thrive.
Bonus tip: The smarter your tech game (think automation, tracking tools, digital invoicing), the more clients you’ll attract.
The Power of Partnerships: Go Local, Win Global
Trying to break into African markets? First rule — don’t go it alone.
Local freight forwarders and clearing agents know the landscape better than anyone. They speak the language of the land — both literally and logistically.
Teaming up means fewer surprises, more efficiency, and stronger compliance. You get their network, they get your support. Win-win.
Also, co-investing in upskilling these local partners means your whole supply chain levels up. Everybody grows.
So, What’s Next?
Here’s your action plan:
- Partner Up: Get in touch with African logistics experts. Don’t build from scratch when you can build smarter.
- Tech Up: Automate what you can, track what matters, and invest in visibility tools.
- Speak Up: Join industry conversations, push for trade-friendly policies, and share your wins.
Africa’s logistics scene is transforming — and you’ve got a seat at the table. Or rather, a container on the ship.
Let’s move this continent, together.
Until next time,
Warm Regards,
Ngoanamokgotho Maggie Tladi
Your trusted guide to trading with Africa