Arise IIP set to establish Special Economic Zones across Africa

Arise Integrated Industrial Platforms (IIP) has recently made headlines with the signing of four new agreements in 2023 to develop five special economic zones across multiple countries in Africa. The company has secured a Framework Agreement with the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Republic of Zambia to establish Special Economic Zones (SEZ) focused on the production of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) and related services. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Nikhil Ghandi, the Executive Director of Arise IIP, shared insights on the expected impact of these Integrated Industrial Platforms. Arise IIP's approach involves creating one-stop solutions for clients within their special economic zones. These solutions include industrial land for manufacturing activities, commercial zones, logistics frameworks including an Internal Container Depot (ICD) and truck parking, and a raw material services business that works with farmers to ensure the sourcing of raw materials from farm to factory gate. Ghandi emphasized that the company's focus is on transformation and value addition within the African continent. He highlighted success stories from their operations in Gabon, Benin, and Togo, where they have played a significant role in transforming raw materials like wood, cashew, and cotton into value-added products for export. As an example, Ghandi mentioned the export of Gabonese and Beninese garments to the US, marking a shift in the manufacturing landscape. The company's expansion plans extend beyond Central and West Africa, with projects in countries like Rwanda and ongoing feasibility studies in Tanzania. Ghandi revealed that Arise IIP aims to be present in over 15 to 20 countries in the near future, positioning them as a major infrastructure developer on the continent. One of the key themes discussed during the interview was the role of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in driving intra-Africa trade and fostering a single market for the continent. Ghandi highlighted the significance of these zones in promoting trade among African countries, citing an example of Chadian meat being exported to neighboring countries in Central Africa. He outlined the different investment regimes within the SEZs that aim to facilitate export processing, local market supply, and intra-Africa trade, contributing to the growth of regional trade networks. As Arise IIP continues to expand its footprint and drive industrial transformation across Africa, the company remains committed to enhancing local value chains, supporting skill development, and promoting sustainable economic development within the region. With partnerships with reputable financial institutions and a strategic vision for growth, Arise IIP is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of manufacturing and trade on the continent.