DP World Launches New Weekly Shipping Service Connecting China and Africa
Global logistics operator DP World is expanding its maritime network with a new weekly shipping service connecting major Chinese ports with East and Southern Africa. The new route, named China Africa Link, is scheduled to begin operations in late November 2026.
Operated by DP World's Shipping Solutions AMEA division, the service will connect Shanghai, Ningbo and Nansha in China with Port Klang in Malaysia, Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, Maputo in Mozambique and Singapore, before returning to Shanghai.
The new connection will support the transportation of a wide range of goods, including machinery, electronics, construction materials and automotive components exported from China. African exports are expected to include agricultural products, minerals and other commodities.
The launch is part of DP World's broader strategy to develop integrated trade corridors that combine maritime shipping, port infrastructure and inland transportation. The company is also investing heavily in African logistics facilities, including a $165 million expansion of the Maputo container terminal in Mozambique and more than $500 million committed to modernising the Port of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania.
These investments are expected to strengthen cargo handling capacity, improve regional connectivity and support growing trade flows between Asia and Africa.
For international freight forwarders, importers and exporters, the China Africa Link creates additional opportunities to diversify shipping routes and improve supply chain flexibility. More frequent connections and expanded port infrastructure can help businesses access new markets and develop more resilient logistics networks.
As trade between China and Africa continues to evolve, initiatives like China Africa Link highlight the growing importance of integrated transportation solutions in supporting international commerce.