Creation of West African regional zone on the cards

A range of initiatives that directly address some of the biggest challenges in the region are creating an enabling business environment in West Africa, says DSV business development manager for Africa, Adrian van Niekerk. Infrastructure investment, Customs improvements and the creation of a West African regional zone are good news for companies doing business in the region, he told FTW. “At present Customs processes are manual and tedious in a large part of the sub-continent,” he said. “The issue is compounded by unscrupulous importers and Customs officers while there is much ignorance of processes. A further lack of knowledge from shippers and forwarders causes incorrect perceptions as to the complexities of importing into these emerging markets.” But, he said, the constant improvements by many governments in the region and the simplification of processes for imports and exports have already changed the West African continent. He believes this will improve investor confidence as mining activity booms and consumer demand for services and consumables increases. “There are Customs improvements earmarked for most of the region that will make it much easier to do business, while the possible creation of a West African Regional Zone, similar to the SADC, is to be welcomed. This can only stimulate the opportunities and play a major role in the stabilisation of the region as a whole.” Warren Erfmann, DSV Africa CEO, said the positive growth being experienced throughout the West African region was cause for optimism. “Investment in infrastructure is creating positive pressure on the supply of materials and thus the freight forwarding industry. Mining and exploration have significantly changed the supply chain environment and prompted the infrastructural changes,” he said. According to Erfmann, DSV remains highly involved in the West African market with offices already established in Togo, Ghana and Nigeria, while they have a presence in several others through dedicated agents. “In Nigeria specifically we are moving consumer products for several customers as well as providing retail platform supply chain solutions – including distribution. CAPTION Mining and exploration have significantly changed the supply chain environment and prompted the infrastructural changes. – Warren Erfmann