Emirates SkyCargo & Astral Aviation Sign MoU to Boost Africa’s Global Trade

Photo: Dubai Government Media Office

Emirates SkyCargo, the cargo division of the world’s largest international airline, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Astral Aviation, one of Africa’s top cargo airlines. This agreement aims to improve global trade connections between Africa and the rest of the world.

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Astral Aviation operates a large cargo network across Africa, serving 50 destinations through regular flights and charter services. Emirates SkyCargo, on the other hand, connects over 145 destinations worldwide using both passenger planes and dedicated cargo aircraft. This partnership highlights Africa’s growing role in global trade and will help businesses transport goods faster and more efficiently.

Both airlines specialize in handling sensitive cargo, including fresh fruits, vegetables, and essential medicines. These items require careful transportation to maintain their quality and effectiveness. By working together, Emirates SkyCargo and Astral Aviation will make it easier for African businesses to export and import goods, expanding trade opportunities.

The agreement was officially signed at the Air Cargo Africa event by Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President of Emirates SkyCargo, and Sanjeev Gadhia, CEO of Astral Aviation. Under this new partnership, both airlines will focus on increasing interline cargo options and securing space agreements. This will improve connections between different regions and help African businesses reach new markets.

Speaking about the partnership, Badr Abbas said, “Africa is home to some of the fastest-growing economies in the world. With our strong global network and expertise in air cargo, we can help businesses expand their reach to customers worldwide. This partnership with Astral Aviation strengthens our commitment to the African market and creates new economic opportunities.”

Sanjeev Gadhia also shared his thoughts, saying, “Our partnership with Emirates SkyCargo has been growing for over 15 years. This agreement is a major step forward in improving air cargo services for Africa. Together, we will create more opportunities for businesses and enhance global trade links.”

Trade and investment between the UAE and Africa continue to expand. The UAE is the leading investor from the Gulf region in Africa and the fourth-largest global investor. Recently, the UAE and Kenya signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to strengthen trade in key sectors like agriculture, healthcare, tourism, and energy. The new partnership between Emirates SkyCargo and Astral Aviation supports this growing relationship and contributes to Africa’s trade expansion goals. It also aligns with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to increase African exports by 32% by 2035.

Emirates SkyCargo has been operating in Africa since April 1986, when it launched its first cargo flight to Cairo, Egypt. Over the years, the airline has expanded its operations significantly, now offering cargo services on 172 passenger flights and seven freighter aircraft flying to 20 destinations across Africa every week.

Astral Aviation, which has been in operation for 24 years, has its major cargo hubs in Nairobi, Johannesburg, Liege, and Dubai. The airline is known for providing reliable and cost-effective air cargo services across Africa. With this new partnership, both airlines will work closely to improve logistics and help businesses trade more efficiently with the world.

Feb. 21, 2025 10:58 a.m. 496

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