Competition and Cooperation

As Barloworld Logistics goes through a period of sustained growth in the Chinese market, it continues to build on its partnership with major Chinese logistics conglomerates such as COSCO and Sinotrans Group.

"Both sides [Barloworld and Chinese logistics companies] choose to cooperate rather than compete, as those Chinese enterprises' physical presence in Africa remains limited," said Wang. "They need the support of African logistics agents to keep large projects running smoothly."

Barloworld's close ties with Chinese logistics enterprises indicate the huge potential for growth in the industry in China. According to information from industry sources, the country's logistics sector has grown at an annual rate of around 20 percent in recent years, in terms of cargo volume.

Meanwhile, Barloworld Logistics has closed their Singapore and Malaysia offices to focus its Asia strategy on India and China. Such integration of services provides the possibility of business optimization, and the move will also help reduce costs, and improve profits, according to Wang.

"Barloworld wants to see more Chinese companies invest in Africa through our well-established logistical support, creating more opportunities for the local economy. [We also want to see] more African logistics companies grow stronger by taking advantage of the promising Sino-African economic development," said Wang.

Barloworld Group

Business Unit

Introduction to Barloworld Logistics

● Barloworld Logistics is over 100 years old and employs approximately 20,000 people in 42 countries

● Barloworld Logistics is one of Southern Africa's leading logistics and supply chain management companies, with operations worldwide, including in the United States, Europe, and Asia, over 60 offices and approximately 2,500 staff

● Barloworld Logistics acquired Swift Freight, along with Flynt International in Hong Kong and S.A.T. in Germany in 2008; those three companies now comprise Barloworld Logistics Middle East & Asia branch.