Emirates SkyCargo has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Astral Aviation, one of the leading cargo airlines in Africa, to explore ways to boost global trade to and from the continent. 

Astral Aviation operates an intra-Africa network of 50 destinations served via scheduled and ad-hoc charters, while Emirates SkyCargo has a global network of over 145 destinations and a fleet of passenger aircraft and dedicated freighters.

In the announcement, Emirates SkyCargo said the partnership underscores the growing prominence of Africa as a competitive player in world trade.

Both airlines bring particular experience in handling sensitive cargo, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and lifesaving pharmaceuticals, which are key commodities transported to and from the market.

 [Source: Emirates SkyCargo]

Under the terms of the MoU, Emirates SkyCargo and Astral Aviation will work closely on a number of initiatives, which include expanding cargo interline options and block space agreements to enhance connectivity and boost the reach of African businesses.

"Home to 11 of the 20 fastest-growing economies, coupled with bold trade ambitions, there is immense growth potential in Africa. Given the breadth of our network, our all-widebody fleet, and specialist product portfolio, we are well placed to support businesses reach new suppliers and customers in every corner of the globe," said Badr Abbas, divisional senior vice president of Emirates SkyCargo.

"This partnership with Astral Aviation solidifies our longstanding commitment to the market, creating mutually beneficial economic opportunities to keep goods flowing quickly, reliably, and efficiently," he added.

Sanjeev Gadhia, CEO of Astral Aviation Limited, noted the company's over 15-year commercial partnership with Emirates, which also reflects the shared vision to elevate air cargo solutions to, from, and within Africa. 

"Together, we will unlock new opportunities, driving innovation and strengthening global trade connectivity," he said.

Economic and investment cooperation between the UAE and Africa continues to grow. The UAE is currently the number one GCC investor and the fourth largest global investor in Africa.

Most recently, the UAE and Kenya signed a landmark Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to accelerate trade and investment in agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare, travel and tourism, financial services, and renewable energy.

The agreement between Emirates SkyCargo and Astral Aviation also lays a foundation for further growth by improving trade flows and generating new opportunities that help strengthen global economies.

This also helps to achieve the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to increase Africa's exports to the rest of the world by 32% by 2035.

Emirates SkyCargo first began operations to Africa in April 1986, with the inaugural flight to Cairo, Egypt.

Over the next four decades, the airline has steadily scaled operations and increased frequencies, now offering customers seven scheduled freighters and bellyhold capacity on 172 passenger flights per week to 20 destinations in Africa.