Special Economic Zones (SEZs) have expanded across Africa as tools to attract investment and promote industrialization, but their performance has been mixed. A new study by the French Development Agency (AFD), covering more than 230 SEZs, finds that while these zones have helped countries increase export sophistication, access new markets, and improve local living conditions, they still face major challenges. Job creation remains uneven, links to domestic and regional value chains are weak, and export diversification is limited.
The study highlights that successful SEZs depend on strong governance, targeted incentives, and integration into broader national and regional strategies. A new generation of African SEZs is emerging—more aligned with AfCFTA goals, sustainability standards, and national infrastructure plans. The key message: SEZs are not cure-alls, but with better governance and smarter design, they can become meaningful drivers of inclusive and sustainable development in Africa.
Source:
https://www.oecd.org/en/blogs/2025/10/A-new-start-for-Africa-s-Special-Economic-Zones.html
