Top global metal companies to use Dar es Salaam port as key African trade hub
As Dar es Salaam port strengthens its role as a hub for regional trade, it is expected to become increasingly important in Africa’s economic future.
Three of the world’s top metal companies are looking to use Tanzania’s Dar es Salaam port as a central hub for African trade.
As reported by The Citizen, China Metal Storage and Transport Company (CMST), Mercuria, and their subsidiary, Henry Bath & Son Ltd, visited Tanzania following an invitation from DP World and the Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA).
They are exploring potential partnerships to boost trade across the continent.
During the visit, Acting TPA Deputy Director-General Baraka Mdima shared details of the port’s potential with the visiting delegation. He expressed confidence in the port’s capabilities.
“We hope that your discussions with DP World will be successful. Our terminal operator is performing well, so we expect you to receive all the services you need,” he said.
DP World Tanzania’s Chief Executive Officer Martin Jacob highlighted the port’s growing importance in global trade.
“This is a clear indication of the confidence the global market has in DP World’s operations at Dar es Salaam Port,” he said.
Jacob noted that the companies’ interest in the port would not only benefit Tanzania but also enhance the logistics network for landlocked countries across the region.
CMST, a global leader in metal storage, and Mercuria, a top global metal trader, have been keen on expanding into Africa.
Mercuria, which re-entered the metals market in August 2024, sees Dar es Salaam as a critical link in securing raw materials for its operations, particularly in China.
“With our re-entry into the metals market, this strategic partnership will help us expand our footprint in Africa,” said Mercuria’s Head of Metals and Minerals for Africa Leo D’Offay.
African ambitions
CMST President Wang Haibin said the company sees Dar es Salaam port as a key to its African ambitions.
“This is our next strategic location. We currently have no presence here, but we see Dar es Salaam Port as a key hub with growing trade volumes,” he said.
For CMST, the expansion into Africa marks a significant move, particularly targeting mineral trading from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
To support this, the company plans to implement specialised structures that will streamline operations, especially in handling documentation and loading delays.
Henry Bath & Son Ltd, based in London and with a robust record in the London Metals Exchange, is also seeking to enter the African market.
CEO Peter Waszkis shared optimism for the continent’s opportunities, particularly in shipping and infrastructure.
“We are here to meet key players and explore the best ways to enter this market, particularly in shipping and infrastructure. Dar es Salaam is well-positioned in Sub-Saharan Africa, and we need to be here,” he said.
As Dar es Salaam port strengthens its role as a hub for regional trade, it is expected to become increasingly important in Africa’s economic future.
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