DB Schenker

A case study on DB Schenker, a German logistics multinational, focusing on its expansion into Namibia via the acquisition of Desert Logistics in April 2012 and the operational challenges it faces in the SADC region.

• DB Schenker identifies a specific taxation system on cross-border transactions between Namibia and South Africa as a significant concern. Exporters are required to pay 25% of South African tax before a transaction is executed, a requirement described as unique compared to other SADC states. While the impact has not yet been felt due to the company's recent entry into the market, there is concern that this could threaten the company's long-term financial survival.
• The company views the lack of road maintenance as a potential future challenge for the regional transport industry, noting that poor road conditions lead to increased transport times and higher insurance costs. Specifically, the maintenance of corridors such as the Trans Kalahari is cited as a priority for effective service delivery.
• DB Schenker expanded its African footprint by opening a subsidiary in Namibia with offices in Windhoek and Walvis Bay, following the official takeover of Desert Logistics in April 2012. The subsidiary employs Namibian nationals across all levels from low-level to middle management.
• The company reports positive observations regarding the SADC business climate, specifically noting a high standard of communication technologies and transparency in the issuance of investment permits and business licenses.
• Certain operational barriers are considered minor or non-existent by DB Schenker, including customs regulations, access to finance, and operational cost management. Currency fluctuations in Angola and Zimbabwe are noted as minor concerns, and corruption is described as a persistent habitual practice in Africa.

APA

South African Institute of International Affairs (2012). DB Schenker. https://saiia.org.za/saiia-toolkit/db-schenker/

Chicago

South African Institute of International Affairs. DB Schenker. 2012. https://saiia.org.za/saiia-toolkit/db-schenker/.

Wikipedia

{{cite report |author=South African Institute of International Affairs |title=DB Schenker |date=24 July 2012 |url=https://saiia.org.za/saiia-toolkit/db-schenker/ |access-date=17 August 2026 |via=Climate Insights Directory}}

BibTeX

@techreport{southafricaninstituteofinternationalaffairs2012schenker, author = {{South African Institute of International Affairs}}, title = {{DB Schenker}}, institution = {South African Institute of International Affairs}, year = {2012}, month = jul, url = {https://saiia.org.za/saiia-toolkit/db-schenker/}, urldate = {2026-08-17}, note = {Indexed by Climate Insights Directory} }