DP World to develop logistics and infrastructure master plan for Mali

October 3, 2017: Dubai- based DP World Group chairman and CEO, Ahmed Bin Sulayem, met with the President of Mali, Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta, last week. They discussed trade and logistics master plan to unlock the resource rich country’s economic potential.

The plan includes a transportation and logistics strategy with electronic customs processes, replicating DP World’s successful model with Dubai Trade at its flagship Jebel Ali Port and Freezone in Dubai.

Regional trade in West Africa connects through ports such as DP World Dakar in Senegal to international markets.

Ahmed Bin Sulayem, said, “Mali has a long history of trade in gold and agricultural products and though landlocked, has the opportunity to maximise use of its 1,800 kilometres of inland waterways such as the Niger River to connect local farmers and businesses to international markets. We have the experience of operating in 40 countries in a wide variety of locations including the management of coastal terminals, inland container depots (ICD’s) and moving cargo on rivers. Our experience in the development of infrastructure and multi-modal transport is proving of value to governments in Africa as they seek to develop the trading capacity of their economies.

“We are also supporting the UAE’s Centennial Vision 2071 published recently which encourages the exporting of our national services to the world. Our flagship Jebel Ali model in Dubai, connecting port, free zone, customs processes and logistics supported by advanced digital systems and technologies is a shining example that countries in Africa such as Mali can benefit from.”

To boost trade potential, use of extensive inland waterways were discussed in the meeting.