Globalization Peaks Despite Tensions—Sub-Saharan Stars Emerge in DHL Report
Globalization remains at historic peaks despite geopolitical tensions, U.S. tariffs, and trade policy uncertainty, according to the DHL Global Connectedness Report 2026, released today by DHL and NYU Stern School of Business. Drawing from over 9 million data points on trade, capital, information, and people flows, it provides the most comprehensive view of global integration available.
Sub-Saharan Africa’s Rising Connectedness
Sub-Saharan Africa shows varied but promising integration. Namibia leads long-term gains since 2001, followed by Mozambique. Recent standouts include Nigeria and Zambia since 2022, driven by trade, investment, and people flows.
Hennie Heymans, CEO of DHL Express Sub-Saharan Africa, said: “As supply chains evolve and trade routes expand, connectedness differentiates businesses and nations. Countries strengthening global links are gaining visibility in trade networks. This shifts Africa from aid to trade, fueled by integration, competitiveness, and market access. To unlock potential, we need regional connectivity, predictable processes, and partners versed in local and global needs. DHL Express is committed to making Africa a key driver of global trade.”
People flows have fully rebounded post-COVID. UN data show Africa’s international tourism arrivals up 17% in 2025 vs. 2019—the second-highest regional gain after the Middle East.
In the 2024 rankings of 180 economies, South Africa placed 53rd. Other top Sub-Saharan performers: Seychelles (40th), Mauritius (65th), Namibia (68th), Ghana (97th), Nigeria (100th), Mozambique (107th), and Kenya (119th).
Globalization Holds Firm
On a 0-100% scale (0% = no cross-border flows; 100% = borders irrelevant), global connectedness hit 25% in 2025, matching the 2022 record.
John Pearson, CEO of DHL Express, noted: “Globalization is holding its ground—and that speaks volumes about its value. From poverty to climate change, global challenges demand global solutions. Countries and companies aren’t retreating; DHL connects them to adapt and unlock opportunities.”
Flows remain far from full globalization, with room for growth absent policy barriers.
No Split into Rival Blocs
Despite U.S.-China decoupling, only 4-6% of goods trade, greenfield FDI, and cross-border M&A shifted from rivals over the past decade—mostly to neutral players like India and Vietnam, not allies. The world economy shows no broad bloc divide.
Prof. Steven A. Altman, Director of the DHL Initiative on Globalization at NYU Stern, added: “Politics around globalization are volatile, but flows are resilient. Trade patterns shifted in 2025, but less than during Ukraine’s early war. Decision-makers need calibrated views of real changes.”
About the Report
Published since 2011, the report analyzes 14 flow types across 180 countries (99.6% of global GDP, 99% of population). The 2026 edition includes 180 one-page country profiles.
