DP World and the Government of India have unveiled the Bharat Africa Setu, a landmark trade initiative aiming to double India-Africa trade and strengthen South-South cooperation.
Backed by India’s Ministry of Commerce and Ministry of External Affairs, the initiative connects DP World’s ports, economic zones, and logistics parks in both regions, creating a seamless trade ecosystem. Indian exporters will gain access to 53 African countries and 260,000 points of sale through an integrated platform offering services from export finance and logistics to packaging and certification.
The announcement was made during a UAE state visit to India, attended by HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, and India’s Commerce Minister, Piyush Goyal. Africa, currently importing $430 billion annually, sees only 6.5% of that from India. Bharat Africa Setu aims to raise this to 12% by 2030.
DP World, with operations at 10 ports and over 200 warehouses across Africa, will leverage its experience to reduce trade barriers and enhance bilateral flows. “This initiative will empower Indian businesses to access and thrive in Africa’s dynamic markets,” said Minister Goyal.
The launch also coincides with Bharat Mart’s construction in Dubai – a 2.7 million sq. ft. B2B/B2C marketplace in Jebel Ali Free Zone. Opening in late 2026, it will feature 1,500 showrooms and space for women-led businesses. Situated near major ports and airports, Bharat Mart will provide Indian exporters efficient access to global markets.
H.E. Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem of DP World noted, “Bharat Mart and Bharat Africa Setu will be pivotal in achieving the India-UAE goal of $100 billion in non-oil trade by 2030.”
