Netherlands-South Africa Smart Logistics Synergy

Realized in South Africa

Defining gaps in the South African Market for Smart Logistics opportunities and advancements, with
a focus on innovative digital solutions in agri-logistics and multi-modal transport corridors.

A Market Study of South Africa, Unveiling Opportunities and Partnerships

South Africa boasts the most developed transport and logistics sector in Sub-Saharan Africa, rivaling industrialized nations. It ranks highly in trade logistics and transportation infrastructure, contributing about 20% to the nation’s GDP, valued at $26 billion. Growth in intracontinental trade, e-commerce, and shifting consumption patterns drive the sector. Multinationals like DHL, Imperial Logistics, and DSV dominate, while SMEs contribute significantly to industry revenue. Opportunities for Dutch SMEs exist in tech-driven solutions such as drones, blockchain, IoT, and AI, which enhance efficiency and address resource challenges in smart logistics.

The challenge

Building on an initial analysis of South Africa’s logistics sector, this market scan examines key trends and drivers of change within the logistics sector. The focus will be on the implementation of new technologies across the various market sectors of the South African economy with a particular focus on innovative digital solutions in agri-logistics and multi-modal transport corridors.

The desktop research provided insights into the state of development in the South African logistical landscape, as well as addressed opportunities, challenges, and current initiatives that drive the development of the sector, as well as Dutch expertise and technological capabilities.

In the South African sector, interviews were conducted at the level of industry bodies and in some cases with individual firms. Forty-six (46) South African stakeholders were interviewed, including government bodies, research organisations, industry bodies and individual businesses.

Regarding participants from the Dutch logistics sector, we engaged industry bodies, conducted desktop research, and made use of the referrals we received, leading us to more engagements. These players included stakeholders that have experience in setting up a business in the South African economy or collaboration and partnerships with South African companies.