Nigeria has been ranked among the fastest-improving economies in global connectedness, reflecting growing integration into international trade, investment, and mobility flows, according to the DHL Global Connectedness Report 2026.
The report, published by DHL in collaboration with New York University’s Stern School of Business, shows that globalisation remains resilient despite geopolitical tensions, rising tariffs, and policy uncertainties.
Global connectedness measures how deeply countries are integrated into the global economy through cross-border flows of trade, capital, information, and people.
Within Sub-Saharan Africa, the report presents a cautiously optimistic outlook. While disparities remain across countries, several economies are strengthening their participation in global networks.
Nigeria and Zambia recorded some of the largest gains in connectedness since 2022, driven by increased activity in trade, investment, and mobility flows. Namibia was also identified as one of the strongest long-term performers since 2001, alongside Mozambique.
Chief Executive Officer of DHL Express Sub-Saharan Africa, Hennie Heymans, said the ability to build stronger global linkages is increasingly becoming a competitive advantage.
“As supply chains across the globe continue to develop and trade routes expand into new territories, connectedness is emerging as a key differentiator for businesses and nations alike,” Heymans said.
He added that countries deepening their international ties are gaining visibility within global trade networks, signalling a broader shift in Africa’s economic positioning.
“This report underscores how Africa is increasingly moving from a narrative of aid to one of trade, powered by stronger integration, rising competitiveness and improved access to global markets,” he said.
Despite ongoing geopolitical tensions, the report found little evidence of a major fragmentation of global trade into rival blocs. Only 4–6 per cent of global goods trade, foreign direct investment, and cross-border mergers have shifted away from geopolitical rivals over the past decade.
Instead, many flows have been redirected toward countries maintaining flexible geopolitical alignments, including India and Vietnam.
Chief Executive Officer of DHL Express, John Pearson, said the stability of global flows underscores the continued relevance of international cooperation.
“Globalisation is holding its ground, and that alone speaks volumes about its value,” Pearson said. “Countries and companies are not retreating behind national borders. That is good news.”
The report also highlighted recovery in global mobility. According to United Nations tourism data, Africa recorded a 17 per cent increase in international arrivals in 2025 compared with pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
In the global ranking of 180 economies, Nigeria placed 100th, while Seychelles ranked 40th, South Africa 53rd, and Mauritius 65th.
