Global e-commerce giant Alibaba Group has selected Durban as its hub for launching operations across Africa.
This follows a visit by eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba, to Alibaba’s headquarters in Hangzhou, China, where he met with the company’s international trade representatives to explore Durban’s potential as a launchpad for Africa’s digital trade future.
In a statement, the eThekwini Municipality highlighted that Durban’s world-class port, growing logistics infrastructure, and King Shaka International Airport make it a strategically positioned gateway between Africa and the global market.
The partnership is expected to unlock significant opportunities for local entrepreneurs, SMMEs, and start-ups, giving them access to international markets via Alibaba’s online platform.
Beyond trade access, the collaboration will also introduce training programmes, digital skills development, and entrepreneurship support, all aimed at fostering job creation and economic inclusion.
This initiative forms part of Durban’s broader internationalisation strategy, which includes strengthening relationships with key Chinese cities. Durban recently signed a Letter of Intent with Xi’an, and continues to maintain strong ties with Xiamen, Guangzhou, and Ningde.
The municipality added that the engagement aligns with Durban’s vision of becoming a resilient, inclusive, and globally connected port city, capable of driving long-term economic growth and innovation.
