The African continent continues to outperform its peers, posting impressive growth statistics in the recent Cargo Market Analysis for the third quarter report by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). It was also reported by the association that African airlines transporting freight in the region witnessed a 10.2% increase in demand in August, continuing 2012’s positive growth trend.

According to Charles Brewer, Managing Director of DHL Express Sub-Saharan Africa, this positive growth bodes well for business in the region as it translates into economic growth for the continent. Brewer says that the increasing freight volumes in the region can be linked to improved business and consumer confidence as airline industry performance tracks developments in the global economy. “It is extremely positive that emerging markets such as those in Africa continue to outpace the Western economies and, set against a backdrop of continued global economic uncertainty, job stagnation, a very challenging European environment and a global debt crisis, this shows the continued and increasing importance of Africa.

He says that the growth in both cargo and freight volumes could be linked to the fact that many businesses, both locally and globally, are looking to Africa for expansion and with the new discoveries of gas and oil fields in Southern and Central Africa, coupled with the technology and healthcare boom, we expect regional trade expansion to continue to improve.

The IATA Cargo Market Analysis report pointed to an increase in the number of air freight routes between Africa and the Middle East, with the highest rate of 17.9% recorded in February. In contrast, the route between Europe and the Middle East only showed 1.4% growth over the same period.

The report noted that during the first quarter of the year, the revenue earned from cargo leaving Africa was $45.8 million, with inbound revenues totaling $333.7 million.

“While Africa only contributes 3% of the global economy, it is growing the fastest. 28 of the 52 countries have 5% average economic annual growth and countries like Ghana, Ethiopia, Liberia, Mozambique, Niger and Uganda could potentially grow up to 10%.”

Brewer did however caution against complacency. “Sub-Saharan Africa undoubtedly provides numerous opportunities for both SMEs looking to reach out globally, and international companies looking to expand. However, there are still numerous challenges around infrastructure, labor relations and the ease of trade within the region which need very urgent attention.”