Ethiopia, World FZO discuss implementation of free trade zones

Addis Ababa, June 25, 2024 (FBC) – Ethiopia’s Minister of State for Trade and Regional Integration, Mr. Kasahun Gofe, held a brief discussion on June 24 with Samir Hamrouni, CEO of the World Free Zones Organization (World FZO), in Zanzibar, Tanzania.

Their discussion focused on the implementation of free trade zones, the state minister said in a social media post. Kasahun noted that his meeting with the World FZO chief was held on the sidelines of the 3rd African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Ministerial Retreat.

The 3rd AfCFTA Ministerial Retreat is being held in Zanzibar, in the United Republic of Tanzania, to discuss. The retreat is an open technical platform for Ministers to discuss issues of interest, especially outstanding rules of origin and emerging matters that Ministers should consider as part of the implementation of the AfCFTA. Included in the agenda are the issues of climate change, trade and industrialization, auto component manufacturing opportunities and strategic priorities of the AfCFTA for the next 5 years.