DHL + QFZ launch distribution facility: Qatar Freezones Authority (QFZ) and logistics giant DHL’s forwarding arm DHL Global Forwarding have inaugurated a new 1.2k sqm logistics facility at Ras Bufontas Freezone, according to a statement. The facility, near Hamad International Airport, aims to enhance operational efficiency and multimodal transport. The investment ticket has not been disclosed.

What’s in store? The facility will function as a distribution warehouse for consolidation services within regional and global distribution networks for the GCC-Africa corridors. It aims to provide air freight, sea, and land logistics services as well as marine shipping agent operations, warehousing, and customs clearance.

Recent moves in Ras Bufontas: QFZ inked an agreement with Qatar Airways earlier thismonth to establish a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) complex in Ras Bufontas Freezone and a duty-exempt corridor linking the zone to Hamad International Airport and Hamad Port. QFZ and FedEx launched a 1.2k sqm logistics facility at Ras Bufontas in September that includes warehousing, storage, and office spaces. QFZ and logistics solutions provider Bin Yousef Cargo inaugurated a storage facility at Ras Bufontas Freezone in September.

REMEMBER- DHL is expanding its footprint: The firm is looking to invest upwards of EUR300 mn (c. USD 349 mn) in warehouses and infrastructure within the continent. The goal is to capitalize on rising demand across the e-commerce and renewable energy sectors in Africa. A DHL and Saudi Aramco JV is also reportedly shopping for investors to back a USD 267 mn distribution center project in the Kingdom.

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