GLA Global Logistics Alliance participated in the 4th China–Africa Economic and Trade Expo, which was held from June 12 to 15 inGLA dives into 4th China–Africa Economic and Trade Expo the Changsha City of central China's Hunan Province, to gain firsthand insights into China-Africa goods exchange, experience the vibrancy of bilateral trade flows, and uncover logistics development opportunities underpinning this dynamic partnership.

With the theme "China and Africa: Together Toward Modernization," the Expo emphasized a shared commitment to building a modern and interconnected global economy, with logistics as a key enabler.

A Cultural Showcase Meets Global Trade Ambition

The vibrant African markets were on full display within the 10-hectare exhibition area. The event was more than a cultural exchange—it was a convergence point for logistics and trade. A total of 53 African countries presented their products and potential, with discussions taking place in packed booths.

Navigating the vast exhibition halls, the GLA team engaged closely with country pavilions. At the Ethiopia booth, fluent Mandarin-speaking exhibitors showcased their renowned coffee to visitors. Representatives from the Republic of Malawi enthusiastically promoted exquisite wooden furniture, while exhibitors at the Lesotho pavilion welcomed GLA with traditional songs, dances, and warm photo opportunities.

GLA President Ms. Grace Sun paid a special visit to the booth of its strategic partner—Kenya Airways. She further held in-depth discussions with logistics professionals and peers, exchanging insights and best practices to foster mutual growth within the sector.

GLA’s Deep Commitment: Enabling exhibitors Smooth Logistics in Africa

At the event, Ms. Grace Sun offered critical insights during high-level exchanges: "Behind every product lies an untold logistics story of immense value. Logistics is not just the backbone—it’s the bridge to shared prosperity. Our vision at GLA is to create a better world for global logistics, and Africa is essential to that vision."

During the Expo, the President identified a critical challenge: logistics costs consumed nearly half the retail price of Africa's vibrant goods—hindering exports like handicrafts and fresh products. 

At Ethiopia’s booth, examining coffee beans that traveled 8,000 km to China, she noted: "The logistics cost outweighs the beans themselves. This is where we make a difference."

According to World Bank data, logistics costs in Africa can represent up to 50% of the final product price—a serious obstacle to growth and market access. GLA is working to change that through local partnerships, operational training, digital adoption and global resource alignment.

Growth at Scale: The Rise of China–Africa Trade

China–Africa trade has skyrocketed in the past two decades, from under  14 billion USD in 2000 to about 293 billion USD in 2024, marking a 20-fold increase. In 2024, trade volume reached 295.6 billion USD, with China maintaining its status as Africa’s top trading partner for 16 consecutive years.

As logistics demand grows, so do the opportunities. Africa’s logistics market is forecasted to keep expanding in the future. Meanwhile, e-commerce logistics turnover in Africa is expected to grow from USD 32.5 billion in 2022 to nearly USD 60 billion by 2027, creating urgent needs for warehousing, cross-border facilitation and agile last-mile delivery.

For freight forwarders, these figures mean unprecedented opportunities. Rising trade volume means more cargo to transport; booming regional markets push forwarders to diversify logistics routes and services; and surging e-commerce demand requires more efficient and precise last-mile delivery systems.

GLA in Africa: A Growing Network of Logistics Powerhouses

GLA has actively expanded its footprint in Africa. Today, 7% of GLA’s global members are based in African countries, including Egypt, Kenya, Ghana, Morocco, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, Senegal, Algeria, Tunisia and others.

Through these partnerships, GLA helps:

• Optimize distribution networks

• Improve cross-border coordination

• Lower delivery costs

• Accelerate customs clearance and tracking

GLA’s African members are not just participants—they are active co-creators of new logistics models that reflect regional needs and global best practices.

GLA Global Tour & What’s Next

On this Changsha trip, GLA engaged deeply in the Expo, furthering dialogue with African partners, injecting fresh vitality into China–Africa logistics collaboration and helping China–Africa trade reach new heights.

GLA’s engagement at the China–Africa Expo is part of the broader GLA Global Tour 2025, which includes the GLA Global Logistics Conference, logistics forums, member visits and exhibitions in Thailand, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Vietnam, China, India, and beyond. These initiatives aim to deepen regional partnerships and increase the visibility of GLA members on the global stage.

One of the most anticipated stops on the Global Tour is the 13th GLA Global Logistics Conference, scheduled for Nov 7–10, 2025, in Bangkok, Thailand. GLA warmly invites logistics professionals, government officials and business leaders to participate and collaborate on solutions for the next decade of supply chain growth.

Creating a Better World for Global Logistics

GLA’s participation in the 4th China–Africa Economic and Trade Expo was not just symbolic—it was strategic. It reaffirmed GLA’s long-term commitment to Africa’s development and global logistics transformation. With trade volumes climbing, e-commerce booming and partnerships deepening, Africa represents not only a market but a movement.

Through shared innovation, smart collaboration and inclusive dialogue, GLA continues to fulfill its mission: building a smarter, more connected and equitable logistics world.