Integrated SEZs to boost growth development in Africa

Ali Dawood, Senior Vice President, Emerging Business Units, Economic Zones World, the parent company of Jafza, speaking on the occasion, said, “Integrated Special Economic Zones offering proper infrastructure, facilities and services will not only boost trade in export processing zones but can become the mainstay of Africa's growth and development in the long run."

Quoting Jafza's example he said, "Jafza in Dubai has been one of the main drivers of the Emirate's and the country's remarkable growth over the years. The free zone contributes 21% of Dubai's GDP on a year-to-year basis; accounts for more than 50% of the Emirates total exports and it sustains the employment of more than 138,000 persons in the country. The free zone accounts for 40% of net FDI inflow into the UAE. Jafza managed Djibouti Free Zone in East Africa is providing similar support to Djibouti's economic development though on a smaller scale."

"This was made possible because we have successfully integrated infrastructure , facilities and services to create a business model that focuses on meeting all investor requirements as they need," Ali added. Jafza business model attracted huge industry interest at the event.