‘The world wants what Africa has to offer’

The world wants what Africa
has to offer – and therein lies
much opportunity for logistics
companies such as RB Freight
Management.
Managing director Richard Barry
says with the many natural resources on
the continent – along with its increasing
consumer base – business opportunities
are always evolving.
“The recession has slowed growth
and dropped demand almost across the
board, but as demand picks up again
there are many opportunities to capture
the new trade. Many companies shy
away from dealing with Africa directly
due to the many challenges faced when
operating on the continent. In some
respects it remains a niche market.”
Barry says while the volume of
mineral exports dropped dramatically,
trade volumes are once again
increasing.
“Our figures compared to 2008 are
not as good, but business is rapidly
picking up and the usual end of the year
rush seems to be materialising.”
Barry says Africa does however need
to address poor infrastructure – roads,
railways and telecommunications – to
continue attracting business. “Poor
roads and almost non-existent rail
systems in many parts of Africa,
coupled with world oil price trends,
result in high and constantly rising
transport costs.”
This, he says, is further affected
by congestion at all the major
ports – creating costly delays. “Poor
telecommunications can also cause
trouble. Many governments have
unnecessary red tape which can slow
down shipments and incur extra costs.
And corruption in Africa remains a
cause for concern.”
With expectations of providing
a more complete logistics service,
RB Freight Management is ready to
embrace the opportunities and increase
its foothold.
“We specialise in trade to and from
the Far East and Africa, and we believe
that it remains a fun and exciting place
to work. Any person looking to breach
new frontiers or establish something
new should be working in Africa.”