DHL announced the launch of a new direct Less than Container Load (LCL) service from Nhava Sheva, Mumbai in India to Durban, South Africa.

Operated by Danmar Lines, DHL's in-house carrier the new service will facilitate trade between India and South Africa and offer customers reliable, quick and cost-effective services between the two ports.

With trade between India and Africa having risen almost four-fold in the last five years, from US$9.9 billion in 2004-05 to US$39 billion in 2008-09[2], DHL Global Forwarding sees vast potential in the India-Africa trade lane.

Christoph Remund, Chief Executive Officer, DHL Global Forwarding India, said, "The launch of our direct India to Durban LCL service reflects our commitment to customers who have increasing business activities in

both markets. The company has allocated significant resources to facilitate growth in the India-Africa trade lane by setting up dedicated India Desks in ten African countries to help businesses there, with plans to establish additional Desks this year."

Africa is emerging as a key market, with freight volumes between India and Africa expected to grow significantly in the coming years. "With expertise in several key sectors, including oil and gas, telecommunications and IT, we are well-positioned to leverage our capabilities in Africa and further increase our LCL volumes this year,"

said Clas Thorell, Head of LCL Management Asia Pacific, DHL Global Forwarding.

Sanjay Tejwani, Director - Ocean Freight, DHL Global Forwarding India, said, "This new service will benefit customers with direct connectivity between Africa and India, especially the small and medium enterprises

which are increasingly turning to ocean freight for greater cost efficiencies. We are optimistic about the growth potential of this business supported by the strong intermodal network across Africa."

To reinforce focus on this important sector, DHL Global Forwarding has recently appointed Joseph Oguta as Head of LCL for Africa, based in Kenya. Mr. Oguta's appointment will provide a strong thrust to enhance

the company's competitive edge in the fast-changing global business environment.

Source: Transport Weekly