Navigating through crisis

DP World's strategic role in Caribbean supply chain transformation 

Three years ago, as the world grappled with an unprecedented disruption in the global supply chain due to the Covid-19 pandemic, we at DP World found ourselves at the forefront of a transformative challenge. A severe shortage of shipping containers, compounded by closed borders and halted industries, was impacting 75% of the world's companies, and we knew something had to be done. 

We have always been proud of our integrated ecosystem—an interconnected network of services, infrastructure, and technologies designed to facilitate global trade and logistics. It covers everything from port operations to distribution, and it was this very system that allowed us to create a new distribution pathway through the Dominican Republic. Our actions enabled companies like Mondelēz International to maintain supply-chain integrity and business continuity despite the widespread disruptions. 

In the Caribbean, the impact of the crisis was acute. Mondelēz International, a leader in the snack foods and beverages sector, was struggling to deliver products across 15 Caribbean territories. The scarcity of containers and efficient shipping routes had led to empty grocery shelves, threatening local livelihoods and economies. In response, Mondelēz initiated 'Project Near', aiming to shift towards a nearshoring model by importing products directly to the Dominican Republic and redistributing them across the Caribbean. This strategic move was crucial for stabilising the regional supply chains. 

As DP World, we were not just observers; we were active partners in implementing Project Near. Our extensive ecosystem of services and technologies, including advanced port operations and robust distribution networks, played a pivotal role in this endeavour. We executed the project in just six and a half months, showcasing our efficiency and expertise in managing complex logistics challenges. 

Choosing the Dominican Republic was a strategic decision on our part. Its advantageous location, skilled workforce, and trade-friendly infrastructure made it an ideal hub for Mondelēz's distribution operations. Despite the global crisis, it proved to be a reliable transit point. 

Our involvement in this project led to significant outcomes: 

1. Stabilised Distribution: Our nearshoring approach enabled more stable and quicker deliveries, greatly enhancing efficiency in a challenging environment.
2. Environmental Impact: By shifting to shorter shipping distances, we helped reduce CO2 emissions significantly, estimated at a decrease of 120,000 kilograms per year.
3. Sustainability and Resilience: Our approach with Mondelēz went beyond addressing the immediate crisis. It positioned them for future resilience and sustainability, underlining our commitment to eco-friendly business practices. 

Our role in facilitating Mondelēz's nearshoring project in the Caribbean is a testament to how strategic partnerships can effectively navigate through global trade challenges. While nearshoring may not be a universal solution, it represents a viable strategy for businesses focusing on sustainability and resilience, especially in volatile global contexts.  

Our involvement underscores our capability to manage complex logistics and champion sustainable trade practices, essential in future-proofing trade against unforeseen global disruptions. As DP World, we stood not just as a participant, but as a leader and a hero in this transformative journey.