Special Economic Zone Policy Framework 2027-2035
Making Special Economic Zones Work for Africa
This Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Framework 2027-2035 is a Make in Africa proposal for African governments, regional bodies and partner countries. It is a set of proposals, not law. About 230 special economic zones now operate in 43 African countries, up from roughly 20 in 1990. The task is to make them deliver processing, jobs and technology transfer, and to link them to AfCFTA. The framework aims to create a competitive environment that attracts fair investment, lifts exports of finished goods and makes better use of local resources.
Priority sectors include agro-processing, mineral beneficiation, pharmaceuticals, electronics, automotive parts, ICT services and tourism. The framework encourages reliable infrastructure, a streamlined business environment and fair incentives, tied to local content and skills.
Vision for 2035
Africa's SEZs as Engines of Value Addition
By 2035, this framework aims for African zones that are known for adding value, with a range of SEZs tailored to different industries. The continent strives to have:
- Zones that raise exports of processed and manufactured goods and strengthen intra-African supply chains.
- Hubs for manufacturing, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals and ICT services that employ local people and share technology.
- A welcoming base for investors, with dependable infrastructure, modern facilities and clear, fair incentives.
Ease of Doing Business
Simpler Procedures
We encourage African governments to reduce bureaucratic hurdles for businesses operating within SEZs:
- Single-Window Clearance: A single-window system to speed up approvals for the permits and clearances related to SEZ activity.
- Lead Agencies: National or regional bodies acting as the main point of contact for SEZ projects, supported by sector departments.
- Reliable Utilities: Priority for power, water and security services so that zone companies can plan with confidence.
- Zone Managers: Dedicated managers for each zone to oversee operations and address compliance and infrastructure concerns.
A Welcoming Home for Workers and Their Families
SEZs across Africa should be inclusive communities that meet the needs of workers and families, including those who relocate from other countries. With good schools, cultural life and recreational spaces, zones can offer an environment where children thrive while staying connected to their heritage.
By caring for the well-being of workers and their children, Make in Africa seeks to help countries attract and keep skilled people, and to make African zones places where talent chooses to build a career.
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About
The Make In Africa Global Summit (MIAGS) is a global platform connecting leaders, businesses, investors, institutions and policymakers shaping the next era of economic growth across the Global South and Africa.
MIAGS advances South–South cooperation, trade, investment, industrialization, technology, infrastructure and economic resilience, creating platforms for dialogue, strategic partnerships and cross-border opportunities.
Our mission is to strengthen the Global South and Africa’s role in the global economy by connecting capital with opportunity, innovation with markets and economic priorities with action—while fostering a more connected, productive and influential economic future.