Continued investment in cross-border rail, road and port infrastructure means lasting opportunities for the logistics sector. This development is crucial as nations gear up for expansion and heightened trade activities.Michael Henning, sales manager at freight forwarder Easy Clear, points to an increase in large cross-border infrastructure projects taking place on the continent. “These projects provide significant opportunities to logistics companies as they can benefit from the forwarding and transportation opportunities created in the construction phase of projects like the Grand Inga Dam hydropower project or the Lesotho Highlands Water Project with its hydroelectric component,” he says.However, cross-border operations in Africa encounter a host of challenges, ranging from regulatory to infrastructural barriers. Addressing these obstacles requires a collaborative effort involving governments, the private sector and investment partners to foster a trade-friendly environment.Henning says some of the obvious challenges are corruption and bureaucracy, which are exacerbating delays and increasing costs. “These issues can be tackled by promoting transparency in customs procedures and by utilising technology for customs clearance and payment processes. Sharing data between customs authorities and other government agencies can enhance transparency and ef f icienc y.”Regional agreements like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) aim to address regulatory challenges by harmonising trade policies, simplifying customs procedures and reducing tariffs to facilitate cross-border trade. However, infrastructure deficiencies such as poor road and rail networks and inadequate ports are pressing issues, particularly for South Africa.According to Dr Mike Masiapato, commissioner and CEO of the Border Management Authority, increased collaboration is taking place in the cross-border sector as governments and the private sector work together to find solutions to these and other challenges.Speaking to Freight News, Masiapato said ongoing engagement between the public and private sectors in South Africa was yielding tangible progress in addressing issues hindering the smooth f low of cargo.“Our goal remains to deliver an environment where trade can take place as seamlessly and effortlessly as possible,” he said.
