Page 292 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - APRIL 2025 (Part 2)

4/15/25, 5:04 PM AIM Congress 2025 enhances investment cooperation prospects between UAE, Japan, Africa - Eye of Riyadh
Moreover, the Africa Regional Forum under the theme "From Zones to Impact: African SEZs Reimagined" gathered key voices
to discuss the evolution of SEZs into innovation-driven, inclusive, and integrated economic ecosystems.

Laura Paez, United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), noted Africa's SEZs have grown from 20 in the 1990s to
over 237 by 2020, but many face challenges in diversification and infrastructure.

"There are more than 200 SEZs currently operational across the continent, with varying levels of success. The emerging SEZ
2.0 model emphasises technology, regional integration, and local value creation aligned with development goals," said Paez.

Jasveer Singh, Cluster Director at Arise IIP, emphasised sustainable industrialisation through public-private partnerships. He
said, "We focus on identifying industrial gaps and enabling value-added production at scale through public-private

partnerships. Our zones are not just industrial parks — they are platforms for inclusive economic transformation."

Dr. Manuel Francisco Pedro, Chairman of Luanda-Bengo SEZ, Angola, stressed stronger governance and infrastructure, noting,

"SEZs must be linked to AfCFTA goals to drive intra-African trade, harmonise standards, and create a coherent investment
climate. Institutional support and strong governance are key."

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