During its recent working trip to South Africa, a delegation from the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) held discussions with representatives from the host country's airlines, including Airlink and South African Airways to seek for cooperation opportunities in air freight between Vietnam and South Africa.

According to Mr. Do Xuan Quang, Vice President of the Vietnam Logistics Business Association (VLA) and Deputy CEO of Vietjet Air, South Africa possesses a well-developed global air transport network, making it one of the region’s strategic aviation hubs. This provides a favorable foundation for both countries to deepen cooperation in air freight and leverage geographical advantages to expand supply chains by air freight.

Although air freight accounts for only about 2 per cent of Vietnam’s total import-export volume, it contributes over 25 per cent of total trade value due to its focus on high-value goods. Establishing direct flight routes between Vietnam and South Africa would optimize transportation time and costs while enhancing the competitiveness of businesses from both nations.

Mr. Quang emphasized that as the aviation sector grows, related industries such as trade, tourism, logistics, and distribution will also experience strong development. Vietnam must quickly seize this opportunity to enhance its presence in the African market through South Africa, which serves as a key gateway.

With its strategic location, Johannesburg Airport in South Africa is not only a major aviation hub for the country but also a crucial gateway for trade with the entire African continent. This presents a significant advantage that could attract Vietnamese airlines to expand their air freight routes into Africa.

Representatives of South African airlines recognized the substantial trade demand between the two nations, particularly in fresh agricultural products and technology. They also hoped that in the near future, both countries will secure important trade agreements, expand air connectivity, and unlock new investment and cooperation opportunities in air freight.

Along with that, given the advantageous geographic positions of Vietnam and South Africa, the cooperation in air freight will not only bring bilateral benefits but also enhance connectivity with other African and global markets. This marks a crucial step in strengthening Vietnam’s role in the international logistics supply chain by air.