CUA-AEZO POLICY GUIDE: POLICY TO ESTABLISH A VIABLE BUSINESS ECOSYSTEM FOR SMES IN SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONES ACROSS AFRICA

The African Union – Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry, Mining (ETTIM) and the Africa Economic Zones Organization (AEZO) have launched a groundbreaking policy to integrate SMEs into Special Economic Zones (SEZs) across Africa. This initiative represents a major turning point in promoting local economic development, stimulating job creation, and strengthening regional competitiveness through SEZs.

Key policy points:

• Highlighting high-growth sectors to tap the potential of SMEs
• Improving access to financing for small businesses
• Focusing on skills development and capacity building
• Committing to environmental sustainability and social responsibility

The policy offers clear guidance for leveraging the unique assets of SEZs to strengthen SMEs, bridge economic disparities, and promote resilient, inclusive growth across the continent.