Nigeria remains a crucial hub for trade, with key exports including nuts and foodstuffs, while key imports consist of garments and mobile phones.
Emirates SkyCargo continues to facilitate global trade, celebrating 39 years of African trade connectivity to international markets. In 2024, the airline transported an average of 3,820 tonnes weekly across 20 gateways, reinforcing its commitment to African economies.
As industry leaders gather in Nairobi for Air Cargo Africa, Emirates SkyCargo highlights its near-four-decade presence on the continent. The airline has played a key role in linking African manufacturers, traders, and exporters with global businesses.
Longstanding Commitment to Africa
“Africa has been a priority market for Emirates SkyCargo since our first flight in 1986. We have grown steadily ever since,” said Khalid Al Hinai, Vice President Cargo Commercial, Emirates SkyCargo – Africa, UAE, and Middle East. “The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) will drive regional and international trade. As a trade facilitator, we remain committed to connecting underserved markets to global supply chains.”
Emirates SkyCargo launched African operations in April 1986, offering direct flights between Dubai and Cairo. Over the years, the airline expanded its services, increasing capacity, gateways, and frequencies. In 2025, it operates eight scheduled freighters and 172 passenger planes, covering 20 destinations weekly. With over 145 global destinations, Emirates SkyCargo supports African businesses in importing and exporting goods efficiently.
Supporting Key African Industries
Emirates SkyCargo plays a vital role in global trade by keeping goods moving to and from Africa. In 2024, it exported over 91,930 tonnes of perishable goods from Africa, making perishable exports the region’s largest commodity. The airline transports strawberries from Egypt, seafood from South Africa, chilled meat from Tanzania, fresh fruits from Ghana, and bananas from Uganda using ventilated and temperature-controlled packaging.
Horticulture is another crucial sector in Africa. Kenya ranks among the world’s top four flower producers, growing popular varieties like roses, carnations, and chrysanthemums. Emirates SkyCargo operates two weekly freighters from Nairobi to Maastricht, ensuring fresh flowers reach European markets within 24 hours through a temperature-regulated supply chain.
Industrial Growth and Future Prospects
African nations are investing in industrial manufacturing to diversify their economies. This sector is set for rapid expansion, aligning with AfCFTA’s objectives. Emirates SkyCargo offers fast, reliable, and flexible logistics solutions, enabling African businesses to access global markets efficiently.
By expanding its services and maintaining strong trade links, Emirates SkyCargo continues to enhance African trade connectivity, strengthening economic opportunities across the region.
Emirates SkyCargo also plays a critical role in Nigeria’s trade landscape, facilitating both imports and exports. In 2024, the airline exported 291.719 tonnes of fresh produce, 14.82 tonnes of general air freight, and 2.867 tonnes of service cargo to Nigeria. On the import side, it transported 1,481.137 tonnes of general air freight, 85.769 tonnes of courier shipments, 52.003 tonnes of priority air freight, 16.718 tonnes of high-value pharmaceuticals, 36.277 tonnes of pharmaceutical products, and 2.969 tonnes of fresh produce.
Nigeria remains a crucial hub for trade, with key exports including nuts and foodstuffs, while key imports consist of garments and mobile phones. Throughout Air Cargo Africa, Emirates SkyCargo remains actively engaged in industry discussions, collaborating with key stakeholders to drive innovation and support evolving supply chains. The airline will be present at Air Cargo Africa from February 19-21 at stand number B01, ready to explore new opportunities and enhance its role in the region’s growing logistics ecosystem.
