The new branch will fully benefit from the Rhenus global network and will aim to cover the activities in the Indian Ocean for the French overseas departments, with the possibility of adding more locations in the archipelagos in the future. Rhenus aims to provide the island trade with specific expertise in the Life Sciences and Healthcare, Live Animals and Perishables industries such as food products and flowers.
Managing Director of Rhenus Air & Ocean in France Christophe Barreau said: “We decided to open our office on the island of La Réunion in response to a strong demand from the existing customers. This will enable us to assist our customers directly and to open us to new markets such as Madagascar, Mauritius, the Seychelles, Mozambique and Kenya”.
In 2021, La Réunion imported €6.2bn worth of goods, while its exports amount to €376m. France is the main supplier for the island, with 59% of products directly imported.
In July 2020, a new project called “France Relance” with an overall investment of €100bn was established by the French government to revive the economy and promote employment for the local population, €546m of which are intended for La Réunion.
With the continuous growth in the local population as well as the consistent export volumes from Réunion to other Indian Ocean islands, the global logistics specialist aims to become a crucial player in the commercial development of the island, with the unique offer of a customer-centred approach.
Source: Rhenus
