What are Special Economic Zones (SEZs)?

Special Economic Zones (SEZs) are designated areas within countries that possess economic laws that are more liberal than the country's typical economic laws. The aim of SEZs is to increase trade balance, investment, job creation, and effective administration. In Africa, SEZs are used as a strategy to promote rapid economic growth by leveraging tax incentives to attract foreign investment and technological advancement.

Why invest in Africa’s SEZs?

Investing in Africa's SEZs offers numerous advantages including access to a fast-growing market, strategic geographic locations for logistics, preferential tax conditions, and streamlined legal processes. SEZs in Africa are designed to be catalysts for national and regional economic development, providing a competitive and stable environment that enhances business operations.

How does Arise IIP partner with the governments of African nations?

Arise IIP partners with African governments to design, finance, build, and operate world-class infrastructure within SEZs. These partnerships typically involve close collaboration with government entities to ensure that the infrastructure and regulatory frameworks align with national economic development goals while also creating a favorable environment for international investors.

What are the incentives for investing in SEZs operated by Arise IIP?

Investors in SEZs operated by Arise IIP benefit from a variety of incentives, such as reduced tax rates, exemption from certain import and export duties, streamlined customs procedures, and sometimes relaxed labor regulations. Specific incentives can vary by location and the nature of the investment.

How does investing in an SEZ contribute to sustainable development?

Investments in SEZs contribute to sustainable development by creating jobs, enhancing technology transfer, and boosting economic growth. Arise IIP ensures that all SEZs are developed with a focus on sustainability, including efficient use of resources, environmental protection measures, and social responsibility initiatives.

What sectors are particularly promising within Africa’s SEZs?

Promising sectors vary by region but commonly include agriculture and agro-processing, manufacturing, energy (particularly renewable energy), information and communication technology, and pharmaceuticals. Each SEZ may have specific target industries based on local resources and economic priorities.

What are the risks involved in investing in Africa's SEZs and how can they be mitigated?

Like all investments, those in Africa's SEZs come with risks, including political risk, regulatory changes, and market volatility. However, these risks can be mitigated through comprehensive due diligence, choosing the right local partners, understanding the local market and legal conditions, and possibly securing investment insurance from entities like the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA).

How does one begin the process of investing in an SEZ?

The initial step involves contacting Arise IIP or the relevant government agency responsible for SEZ administration to discuss potential projects, available plots, and specific investor requirements. This is followed by a site visit, feasibility studies, and obtaining necessary approvals and licenses

Are there any success stories of businesses that have thrived in SEZs operated by Arise IIP?

Yes, several multinational and local companies have successfully established operations within SEZs managed by Arise IIP, benefiting from robust infrastructure, regulatory support, and a skilled workforce. Detailed case studies are available upon request or can be found on our website.

How is the security of investments ensured in Africa’s SEZs?

Investment security in SEZs is ensured through strict adherence to international best practices for business operations, legal protection under special economic zone laws, and active government involvement to protect and promote foreign investment.

Invest In Africa | Top Locations, Sectors, Economic Zones

Agro Processing

Timber & Wood Processing

FMCG

Animal Husbandry

Textiles

Consumer Electronics

Construction Materials

Automotive & Spares

Pharmaceuticals

Furniture

Garmenting

Meat Processing

Cashew

Glass Manufacturing

Sawn Wood

Palm Oil

Shea Processing

Paper & Pulp

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Visions & testimonials

Denis Sassou N’Guesso
President of Republic of Congo

The 2021-2026 Social project of the Republic of Congo is focused on the industrialization of the country. The implementation of this ambitious plan – to structurally transform our economy – is based on the development of four existing special economic zones (SEZs), including: Pointe-Noire, Brazzavi...

Denis Christel Sassou Nguesso
Minister for International Cooperation & PPPs

At the dawn of the opening of the continental free trade zone, our country located in the heart of Africa must be a strategic hub for production, processing and distribution. It is in this perspective that the government of the Republic of Congo has decided to trust the ARISE group to ensure the dev...

Jean-Marc Thystere Tchicaya
Minister of SEZs & Economic Diversification

We welcome the partnership with the Arise IIP Group which, through the Industrial Platforms of Congo Pointe-Noire (PICP), is working hard to, in particular, make the Special Economic Zone of Pointe-Noire operational which, on relying on sectors with high growth potential, will become the driving for...

Julien Paluku
Minister of Industry of the DRC

Julien Paluku, Minister of Industry of the Democratic Republic of Congo, stated that the vision of a “New Congo,” as envisioned by H.E. Félix-Antoine TSHISEKEDI, is achievable through the establishment of competitive ecosystems and robust economic platforms. The creation of Special Economic Zones (...

Patrice Talon
President of the Republic of Benin

We have adopted a law to promote Special Economic Zones and the first Industrial Zone in Glo-Djigbé is fully operational and already welcoming investors. Benin's ambition is to become an industrial hub for the transformation of agricultural products such as cashew, cotton, shea butter, pineapple, s...

Gaston Dossouhoui
Minister-Agriculture, Livestock & Fisheries

Benin is entering an important phase in its history, that of going far with serious project leaders who will process raw materials and create jobs for young Beninese. These factories remain a safe destination for our raw materials and a prerequisite for increasing our agricultural production.

Michael Derus
Ambassador of Germany to Benin

It’s truIy impressive ! I was very pleased to return to GDIZ. My last visit was less than a year ago and I’m very impressed by the swift development I have seen, particularly in the Garment Training Center (GTC). The Zone has a great potential for international development.

Dr Akinwumi Adesina
President of African Development Bank (AFDB)

I am impressed by the scope of Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone (GDIZ). It will contribute to the industrialization of Benin by promoting the local transformation of Benin’s natural resources (cotton, cashew nuts, pineapples and others) and the creation of jobs for Benin’s youth. Congratulations to the Pr...

Arnaud Floris
Coordinator Africa- BPI France

Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone (GDIZ) reflects Benin's boldness and innovation: an inspiration for African countries with its immense potential for industrial development. We are committed to support, co-finance and co-invest in agribusiness projects, as a demonstration of our faith in Benin's vision an...d promising future!

Joseph Owondault Berre
Vice-President of the Gabonese

Everything is in place within the Nkok SIZ to foster high-quality projects and achievements. This Zone is a tool for promoting Gabon's expertise. It was a truly memorable visit.

Evariste Ndayisimiye
President of the Republic of Burundi

GSEZ is an example in the transformation of natural resources.

Raymond Ndong Sima
Prime Minister, Head of Government- Gabonese

Together, let's build our future by increasing our production capacity and exploring innovative avenues to maintain our position of choice on the international market.

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