The African SMEs Forum, organized by the General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises (CGEM) and the African Development Bank (AfDB) in Rabat, has highlighted the urgency of advancing intra-African trade and the ‘Made in Africa’ agenda.
The event convened delegations from 20 African nations to discuss strategies for economic integration.
Speakers included Younes Sekkouri, Morocco’s Minister of Economic Inclusion, and CGEM President Chakib Alj, who emphasized the need to prioritize Africa’s resources for local development.
Alj pointed out that Africa’s intra-trade rate is just 15%, lagging behind Asia (58%) and Europe (68%).
Key discussions revolved around transforming sectors like automotive, textiles, agri-food, and technology by enhancing value chains, promoting innovation, and harmonizing regulations.
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The CGEM/AfDB study underscored public-private cooperation to develop competitive ecosystems and talent, especially as Africa’s youth population grows.
The forum also emphasized the role of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in fostering regional integration and urged African leaders to create policies that favor SMEs, which account for 75% of the continent’s jobs.
This initiative aims to position Africa as a leading global player while addressing local urgencies and fostering sustainable development.
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