Sub-Saharan African economies are strengthening their integration into global trade and investment flows, according to the latest DHL Global Connectedness Report 2026It highlights the region’s growing relevance in international commerce despite heightened geopolitical tensions and global trade uncertainty.“As supply chains across the globe continue to develop and trade routes expand into new territories, connectedness is emerging as a key differentiator for businesses and nations alike,” said Hennie Heymans, CEO of DHL Express Sub‑Saharan Africa.“The countries in our region that are strengthening their global links are becoming more visible in international trade networks,” he noted, adding that Africa is “increasingly shifting from a narrative of aid to one of trade.”The report, produced by DHL in partnership with New York University Stern School of Business, draws on more than nine million data points tracking global flows of trade, capital, information and people.It found that global connectedness reached 25% in 2025, matching a record high first achieved in 2022.Several countries are emerging as notable long-term improvers.Namibia ranks among the top three globally for increases in connectedness since 2001, while Mozambique also features among the strongest performers over the same period.More recent gains have been recorded in Nigeria and Zambia, which have posted some of the largest improvements since 2022.Beyond trade and investment, the report notes a strong recovery in cross-border movement of people following the pandemic.UN data shows that Africa recorded a 17% increase in international tourist arrivals in 2025 compared with 2019, the second-largest increase among world regions after the Middle East.In the report’s latest ranking of 180 economies, South Africa placed 53rd globally.Other African economies with relatively strong positions include Seychelles (40th), Mauritius (65th), Namibia (68th), Ghana (97th), Nigeria (100th), Mozambique (107th) and Kenya (119th).“To fully unlock this potential, the region needs strong regional connectivity, predictable cross-border processes and partners that understand both local conditions and global trade requirements,” added Heymans.“At DHL Express, we are committed to being a catalyst for growth in Africa, ensuring that not only is Africa a part of global trade but a key driver within it.”Read more:
DHL study flags Africa’s growing integration with the global economy
Africa's growing integration into global markets (Image source: Adobe Stock)
