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URSB Streamlines Business Registration Process

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URSB Streamlines Business Registration Process

URSB Streamlines Business Registration Process

World Business Journal talks to Mercy K. Kainobwisho, the Registrar General of URSB, about how digitization has reduced the time taken for business registration from 14 days to just 4 to 6 hours, along with measures aimed at safeguarding intellectual property rights and strengthening the country’s innovation ecosystem.

What is the process for registering a business in Uganda?

Five years ago, registering a business required around 14 working days or more. Through our digitisation and automation reforms, this process can now be completed in just 2 hours for legal document registrations and 4 to 6 hours for new registrations.

To register a business, you need to create an account, check name availability, and reserve your name. After that, submit the required documents and payments electronically, including forms for appointing a director and a secretary. Once submitted, you will receive a registration certificate and a tracking number to monitor your progress.

Plans are underway to launch an app and allow business registration through banks and local governments, simplifying the process even more.

What common misconceptions do local and foreign investors have about the business registration process?

Misconceptions prevent many local enterprises from registering. To tackle this, we established one-stop centres across the country in partnership with the Kampala Capital City Authority, the Ministry of Local Government, and URA. These centres play a crucial role in educating businesses about the numerous benefits of formal registration and the significant impact it can have on their growth.

Foreign investors often mistakenly believe that a local partner is necessary for registration, when in fact, anyone can register a company independently.

What is the current state of IP registration, and how are you raising awareness among innovators?

We have been a member of WIPO since 1973 and ARIPO since 1978, actively participating in treaties to protect intellectual property at various levels. We operate 37 IP technology innovation support centres nationwide and initiatives like “UGYouth4IP,” educate secondary school students on intellectual property, helping them safeguard their creative works and enhance the innovation ecosystem.

The Copyright and Neighbouring Rights (Amendment) Act, 2025 aims to update intellectual property laws to bolster protections for creators and innovators in the digital landscape.

NDPIV seeks to advance a knowledge-based economy by promoting and strengthening intellectual property (IP) growth, which is essential for fostering innovation, protecting creators’ rights, and driving socio-economic advancement.

By implementing robust IP policies and ensuring enforcement mechanisms, the plan seeks to stimulate research and development, attract foreign investment, and encourage the commercialisation of new technologies. This approach will not only support creators and inventors but also play a pivotal role in elevating national competitiveness in the global market.

China Will Remove All Tariffs on African Exports

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China Will Remove All Tariffs on African Exports

China Will Remove All Tariffs on African Exports

Following the China-Africa co-operation meeting, a new move was announced. China is Africa’s largest trading partner, and it has declared that it will remove the tariffs it charges on imports from 53 African countries.

This decision will benefit middle-income nations. Moreover, it will boost trade after several years of partnership between the two regions. Many of the African countries that will gain from this decision will be able to enter the Chinese market duty-free.

What Does the New Decision Involve?

China is Africa’s largest trading partner, and this has been the case for the last 15 years. Africa has been exporting goods to China worth about $170 billion back in 2023. Now, China has decided to drop the tariffs on 53 out of the 54 African nations, countries it has diplomatic relations with. The only exclusion is Eswatini, a nation that has not established any diplomatic relations with the Asian country.

There’s no implementation date confirmed, but the meeting confirmed the new move. This comes in the face of “global uncertainty”, which may be a reference to the United States possibly increasing tariffs on Chinese products.

A joint ministerial statement criticized “certain countries” trying to disrupt the current international economic and trade order. Then, it called on the United States to rely on “equality, respect, and mutual benefit” to resolve trade disputes.

“Faced with an international situation marked by changes and turmoil, China and Africa should uphold solidarity and self-reliance more than ever,” said Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

Decreasing China’s Trade Excess

One thing that China wants to do is offer various African powers, such as South Africa, Egypt, Morocco, and Nigeria, a much greater market access. This will help them increase their export capacity.

Moreover, the Asian country hopes this new project will reduce its structural trade surplus with Africa. At the moment, it’s $62 billion.

China also decided to support LDCs like Mali or Tanzania as businesses there face challenges against more developed countries. The Asian nation will offer training and marketing promotion. Beijing’s move will also have an effect on relatively advanced nations that could take advantage of the Chinese market.

“It enables middle-income countries like Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria, Egypt, and Morocco… to be able to now enter the Chinese market duty-free,” said Development Reimagined founder Hannah Ryder.

The Industries Included in China’s Plan

Although these tariff changes are expected to influence many sectors, it’s unclear which areas will be affected. The majority of African exports to China include raw materials, oil, and ores.

Many people are wondering if China will apply its policy to car exports from South Africa as well, and whether they have enough demand in the Asian country’s market.

Some individuals also worry that this policy might keep African countries limited to their status as raw material producers without helping them advance up the value chain. For now, the African nations are waiting to see the results of the tariff drop and how it will impact their economy.

‘Crypto Card’ Initiative Was Revealed by the National Bank of Kazakhstan

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‘Crypto Card’ Initiative Was Revealed by the National Bank of Kazakhstan

‘Crypto Card’ Initiative Was Revealed by the National Bank of Kazakhstan

The National Bank of Kazakhstan revealed that it will implement crypto cards soon as one of its digital assets’ integration projects.

This retail payments initiative is only one of the projects meant to boost regulated digital finance in the country. The implementation was discussed in a meeting between representatives of banks, crypto exchanges, and fintech companies.

This initiative would allow payment card users to make non-cash transactions connected to wallets in digital asset service licensed providers. The plan came as one of the many projects meant to grow regulated digital finance.

The New Crypto Card Initiative

On June 2, 2025, the National Bank of Kazakhstan had a meeting with representatives of fintech organizations, crypto exchanges, and banks. They discussed implementing different projects to establish innovative financial services that focused on digital asset tokenization. The “crypto cards” project implementation was launched during the meeting.

This is only one of the multiple projects planned by the landlocked country with a population of around 20 million people.

The cryptocurrency card initiative allows consumers to link a licensed crypto wallet to a traditional payment card. Then, they can start making retail payments in cryptocurrencies. Meanwhile, merchants will receive their payments in the country’s fiat currency, respectively the tenge.

According to a statement from the National Bank of Kazakhstan, this project will offer the possibility to integrate digital asset turnover into the existing payment structure in a safe way.

The NBK’s official press release mentioned that the mechanism that backs up crypto cards involves the user’s digital asset real-time sale on the AIFC cryptocurrency market when the transaction starts. Immediately, the equivalent fiat value is credited to the card.

Regulatory Sandbox Experimentation

In a LinkedIn post, National Bank of Kazakhstan chief digital officer Binur Zhalenov spoke about the new crypto card initiative.

“Merchants receive tenge, while users get a seamless payment experience with digital assets — no new infrastructure required,” he said.

According to Zhalenov, the planned tenge-backed stablecoin pilots and other plans will be run through the regulatory sandbox of the bank, which is a test space. He also mentioned the “scalable fiat-crypto gateways across the country” and the “web3 infrastructure and DAO experiments”.

“These initiatives reflect our ambition to create a safe, inclusive, and forward-looking digital finance ecosystem, aligned with the best international practices and tailored to Kazakhstan’s needs,” Zhalenov also said.

Other Pilot Projects on Digital Assets

Crypto cards are not the only initiative in the financial sector. Market participants also have other pilot projects planned under the National Bank’s coordination. Some of these include:

  • Financial and real-estate tokenization
  • Organization of services for crypto asset exchange transactions and storage of cryptocurrency assets
  • Stablecoins issue secured by the national currency for digital asset settlement transactions
  • Organizing accounting systems as well as digital financial assets collateral storage

The new crypto card initiative will change the landscape for both consumers and businesses. Once available, it will revolutionize the financial sector of the country.

Türkiye Offers New Incentives for Regional Industry Development

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Türkiye Offers New Incentives for Regional Industry Development

Türkiye Offers New Incentives for Regional Industry Development

Türkiye works hard to develop its regional industry. Not long ago, the country came out with an investment plan to promote industrial growth. This new incentive scheme would take the production capacity away from Istanbul, which is the main economic center of Türkiye, and use it in less developed areas.

The new initiative was built on three core foundations: Türkiye’s Sectoral Incentive System, Century Development Move, and Regional Incentives.

Investors can receive millions in Turkish liras, getting the support they need.

What Is the Purpose of the New Decision?

The new investment incentive system will prioritize high-value-added tech investments, as well as employment in each region. The southeastern and eastern regions might benefit the most from these new plans. The scheme was revealed in a presidential decree published in the country’s Official Gazette.

With the new investments, foreign dependency will decrease, and the security of supply will be ensured. Moreover, it will give international competitiveness a boost.

The new incentive will speed up digital and green enterprise transformation. As a result, foreign direct investments and support investments that try to reduce regional development inequalities will increase.

Under this new scheme, investors can receive TL 240 million cash as support.

“We will provide incentives of up to 20% of the investment amount and TL 240 million with 11.5 to 18.4 points of interest-profit share support in investment loans,” Mehmet Fatih Kacır, Industry and Technology Minister, said.

“We will provide cash support of up to 25% of the machine price, 15% of the investment amount, and TL 240 million for the machinery purchases they will make with their own resources within the scope of the Türkiye Century Development Move.”

What Areas Will Receive the Most Support?

Investors in eastern and southeastern provinces will get extended social security premium support. The government will cover the employer’s share for a total of 14 years. On the other hand, the employees’ share will be covered for 10 years.

One plan of the government is to push industrial facilities to relocate from earthquake-prone or highly populated areas, such as Istanbul and the Marmara region, to Anatolia. Any investor that moves equipment and machines from these places will qualify for local employment incentives in the new location.

There will be four priority investment areas in each province. They will all be tailored to suit the dynamics of the area.

Tech industries that will get support include computers, aerospace vehicles, optical equipment, electronics, and pharmaceutical products. Medium-high tech industries might also receive assistance, including military land vehicles, electrical equipment, weapons, ammunition, and chemical products.

According to Mehmet Fatih Kacır, the system will be more focused and selective. This will ease things for investors, reducing their financial responsibilities.

The business world is pleased with the new system, with many representatives saying that the new plans will boost the development vision of Türkiye. The country will be able to reach a sustainable development goal and compete at the global level.

URA deploying tech to expand tax base

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URA deploying tech to expand tax base

URA deploying tech to expand tax base

World Business Journal talks to John Musinguzi Rujoki, Commissioner General, Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), about the country’s tax regime, initiatives aimed at enhancing both domestic and cross-border tax compliance, and the impact of digitalization and integrated artificial intelligence on advanced analytics and risk mitigation to boost revenue mobilization.

How competitive is Uganda’s tax regime within East Africa?

Uganda’s tax regime is relatively on par with other East African countries. Key tax rates, like VAT and corporate income tax, closely resemble those in neighbouring countries. The VAT rate stands at 18%, aligning with Rwanda, Tanzania, and Burundi, while slightly higher than Kenya’s 16%. The corporate income tax rate is generally around 30% throughout the region.

It should also be noted that countries within the East African Community (EAC) operate import taxes within the framework of a common external tariff. The implication then is that our tax rates tend to be the same across the region and we all apply zero import duty for goods that originate from the region. This helps to promote intra-regional trade.

Our economy is also young with immense growth potential, offering an attractive tax regime and generous incentives. Tax administration focuses on revenue collection and business facilitation, ensuring timely support and a level playing field. We collaborate with taxpayers and investors to achieve success, as thriving businesses lead to higher profits and better tax contributions.

What efforts are being made to improve domestic and cross-border tax compliance and revenue collection?

Efforts to improve tax compliance focus heavily on enhancing domestic tax collection, recognizing this as crucial for the country’s future self-sufficiency. Over the past decade, the focus has shifted from international trade taxes (which once surpassed domestic taxes) to domestic taxes, due to policies promoting import substitution and local manufacturing. Currently, domestic taxes contribute about 60% of the revenue, up from 40%.

Key strategies include deploying technologies, educating taxpayers, and leveraging data to expand the tax base, which has grown to over 4.5 million taxpayers, up from 1.3 million a decade ago.

In order to boost cross-border tax compliance, we use non-intrusive scanning and the Electronic Cargo Monitoring System to monitor goods in transit across borders in real-time using electronic tracking seals.

We are also establishing a central container depot for improved import assessment and adapting to business changes through regional agreements.

How is digitalization enhancing revenue mobilization and supporting the formalization of the informal sector?

 The transition from manual to online tax filing has simplified compliance, offering e-payment solutions, automated assessments, and enhanced advisory services.

Systems like EFRIS (Electronic Fiscal Receipting and Invoicing System) streamline the issuance of e-invoices and e-receipts, optimizing tax compliance and easing audit processes. Using Digital Tax Stamps (DTS), digitally traceable stamps are applied to products to ensure authenticity, verify tax payments, and combat counterfeiting.

We have employed Non-intrusive inspection with scanners at our customs boarders to detect illegal cargo entering the country, Bond Warehouse management system to facilitate clearance in bonded warehouses, Rental Tax Income Management solutions, a call centre that serves through multiple touchpoints [WhatsApp, web, email] and several taxpayer interface enhancements through improved functions of our web portal, the Mobile App, the new USSD menu. The aim is to empower the taxpayers and to minimize physical visits at our tax offices.

Through the Taxpayer Register Expansion Program (TREP) together with the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and local governments we created one-stop centers where all the business registration processes can be handled.

Under the TREP program, we encourage informal businesses to register and obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN). This formalization opens access to financial services, government incentives, and credibility in the market, which are vital for business growth.

We plan to also automate excise warehousing and improve data processing with a Data Lake Solution. This approach will consolidate taxpayer data, integrate artificial intelligence for advanced analytics, and mitigate compliance risks.

Digitizing traditional methods comes with a learning curve. Many adapted well, but some local businesses faced hurdles. Ongoing efforts aim to highlight benefits, deliver regular training, and ensure clear communication.

Almost €1 Billion Invested in 15 Green Hydrogen Projects

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Almost €1 Billion Invested in 15 Green Hydrogen Projects

Almost €1 Billion Invested in 15 Green Hydrogen Projects

The EU just announced a new investment that will help reduce carbon dioxide emissions in the future. The Commission declared that it would fund 15 renewable hydrogen production projects across the European Economic Area.

More specifically, the EU will invest €992 million in these projects, aiming to produce 2.2 million tons of renewable hydrogen. These efforts will span over ten years.

The Selected Projects

15 projects were selected as part of the new efforts to create renewable hydrogen and reduce carbon dioxide emissions. These include:

  • H2LZ
  • VILLAMARTIN H2
  • Kristinestad PtX
  • PUERTO SERRANO H2
  • AGG280
  • AGS
  • KASKADE
  • Zeevonk electrolyser
  • TORDESILLASH2
  • H2-Hub Lubmin
  • HammerfestH2
  • Gen2-LH2
  • RjukanH2

Out of all the chosen projects, 12 of them are dedicated to creating renewable hydrogen with a €0.20 – €0.60 per kilogram premium support.

This is the first time that a dedicated budget for hydrogen producers is provided by an auction with maritime sector off-takers. Three bids from the listed projects received €96.7 million in grants. They will use €0.45 – €1.88 per kilogram. Every subsidy for the chosen projects goes from €8 million to €246 million over 10 years.

Why Is It Crucial to Boost Renewable Hydrogen Capacity?

Encouraging efforts to increase the production of renewable hydrogen is a priority. This comes following challenges regarding energy insecurity, but also climate change. What makes hydrogen from renewable electricity a good choice is the fact that it doesn’t release any CO2 when used. So, it can replace fossil fuels in some fields, such as long-haul transport, steelmaking, and more.

This way, the EU will not only reduce the negative effects on the environment but also give a push to green innovation and jobs. It will become possible to build electrolyzer plants, train a new clean energy professional generation, and even come up with storage solutions.

Furthermore, the EU will also be able to rely less and less on imported oil and gas, especially those that come from unfriendly regions. It will invest in its own green fuel instead.

What Will Happen Moving Forward?

Every project that was picked for funding will be invited to prepare its grant agreement with the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency. All agreements are expected to be signed by September-October 2025.

It is required for signed projects to reach their financial close over two and a half years after receiving the signature. Moreover, they must start creating renewable hydrogen over the next five years.

A fixed premium subsidy will be given to each project for a period of up to ten years. This will allow them to generate certified and verified renewable hydrogen.

There is also another European Hydrogen Bank auction planned for the end of the year. It was announced in the Clean Industrial Deal and will have a budget of €1 billion. Under the European Hydrogen Bank, the Commission will also launch the Hydrogen Mechanism. This will allow buyers and sellers to come together and share information.

Namibia and Botswana Join Forces for Joint Oil Refinery to Move Towards Energy Independence

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Namibia and Botswana Join Forces for Joint Oil Refinery to Move Towards Energy Independence

Namibia and Botswana Join Forces for Joint Oil Refinery to Move Towards Energy Independence

A new change will occur in the Southern African energy landscape. Namibia and Botswana decided to join an energy collaboration and make history.

The two are willing to build an oil refinery and run it with joint ownership. This collaboration will not only help improve the relationship between the governments and boost communication but will also reduce dependency on imported refined petroleum products.

A Meeting Between Presidents

A visit to Gaborone took place recently, where Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, the Namibian President, and Duma Boko, the President of Botswana, met and discussed their plans for the future of the region’s energy reliance.

The two reaffirmed that they want to promote energy integration in the area using suitable infrastructure projects. A jointly owned oil refinery will be established.

According to The Namibian, this decision was one of the main points discussed during the president’s visit to Gaborone where she met President Duma Boko. This would boost energy security and allow the region to decrease its dependence on imports.

The office of the Namibian president released a statement: “The two leaders agreed that bridging the gap between the ‘haves and the have-nots’ and the fight against poverty through job creation required urgent and concrete programs and projects to be implemented by both countries.”

Location and Capacity

At the moment, the proposed location is near the border between Namibia and Botswana. This would make it easier to have access to logistics and ensure infrastructure connectivity.

Some areas are currently being assessed, such as Ghanzi in Botswana and Walvis Bay in Namibia. The decisions will be made after the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment and stakeholder consultations are complete.

A first look at the plans reveals that the suggested capacity of the refinery will be between 60,000 and 100,000 barrels per day.

Impact on the Environment

Environmental impact is one of the main things taken into account regarding the new oil refinery. Because the entire world is trying to adopt more sustainable practices, the project will also implement modern refining techniques.

Both Namibia and Botswana agreed to adhere to any international environmental standard that is required. Moreover, they decided to talk to the affected communities.

The technologies used at the new refinery will help reduce carbon emissions and potential damage to the environment. A provision even aims to integrate renewable energy sources into the operations of the new facility. This will help reduce the carbon footprint.

Reducing Diamond Dependency

Both countries are renowned for producing diamonds in Africa, but they have agreed to try to decrease their economic dependence on this resource. They will look into strategies to decrease this dependency even though this field has underpinned the countries’ national revenues over the years.

Because the global demand for natural diamonds is going down, this is an achievable goal. Besides, there is an increase in lab-grown diamond alternatives.

Following production cuts in recent years, the two countries are looking for ways to focus on regional collaboration and diversification to remain stable.

Disney Opens Theme Park in Abu Dhabi and Enters the Middle East

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Disney Opens Theme Park in Abu Dhabi and Enters the Middle East

Disney Opens Theme Park in Abu Dhabi and Enters the Middle East

Walt Disney Company made its first announcement in 15 years about opening a new theme park. Abu Dhabi will become home to the 7th Disneyland resort. This is the first resort of its kind in the Middle East, sparking a wave of excitement among residents.

Disneyland Abu Dhabi is set to be erected on Yas Island’s waterfront resort. This is a strategic location that already draws millions of visitors from all over the world, including Africa, Europe, and India. The announcement was made shortly after Disney reported strong second-quarter earnings.

The Reasoning Behind the New Theme Park

Disney is one of the world’s most popular enterprises, earning a net income of around $46 million in the 4thfiscal quarter of 2024. Their parks are the most notable financial driver, bringing about 59% of the operating income. While domestic parks saw a moderate decline in 2024, Disney noted that attendance started to surge once more.

Revenue increased by 7% in the second quarter,  going from $22.1 billion last year to $23.6 billion this year. International resorts are seeing the most growth in guest spending and attendance. This move could help improve their revenue further, relieving the pressure brought by the trade war in China. With park attendance in Hong Kong and Shanghai dropping, the park in Abu Dhabi is expected to shift the tide in revenue.

Miral, a leisure and entertainment company in Abu Dhabi, was put in charge of the new Disney resort. They will fully plan, build, and operate the new location, with the help of Disney Imagineers. Miral has already developed a series of family entertainment points on Yas Island. They will operate the resort in collaboration with European and American brands, driving success.

Opening a Whole New World for Disney Enthusiasts

The CEO of the Walt Disney Company, Robert A. Iger, talks about this plan as a thrilling moment for the company. He expressed his excitement about expanding into a land where the culture is rich in creativity and the arts. He mentioned that this 7th resort will blend cultural and contemporary elements in a modern way. As such, visitors should have an immersive experience at a location that’s distinctly Emirati but authentically Disney.

The “Free Trade” Deal of the UK and India: An Event that Made History

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The “Free Trade” Deal of the UK and India: An Event that Made History

The “Free Trade” Deal of the UK and India: An Event that Made History

Talk between the UK and India has been underway for more than 3 years now. After working on a deal since 2022, the United Kingdom and India finally agreed on a free trade deal to further strengthen their strategic partnership.

The Government of the UK described this event as the most “economically significant trade deal” since Brexit. The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, even went as far as calling it “historic.”

The Trade Deal Coverage

India has some of the highest tariffs in the world, with their average being around 48.5%.  Under this deal, it cuts an average of 90% of the import taxes on products. It’s expected that within the decade, about 85% of these products will become completely free of tariffs.

The deal covers different products and devices like whiskey, electrical machinery, medical devices, and aerospace. It will also include a significant part of the food industry, such as salmon, chocolate, and lamb. The deal will even cut taxes on Indian footwear exports and clothing.

The government of the United Kingdom mentioned that this decision didn’t cover changes within the immigration policy. This includes Indian students who are currently completing their education in the UK. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer sees it as a way to boost the economy of the UK, benefiting British citizens.

In 2024, trade between India and the UK totalled around £42.6bn, including taxes. Trends have already predicted that trade revenue will keep growing. However, with the tariff deal, we are looking at an extra £25.5bn by 2040.

The Impact of the UK-India Agreement

The UK has the third-largest trading relationship with India, immediately after Japan and Australia. India also holds the 11th spot as the UK’s largest trading partners, accounting for around 2.4% of the trade. The total revenue of trade between the two countries sat at $54 billion in 2024.

At the end of 2024, the UK noted a £8.4bn deficit with India, which affected the overall economy and growth. With this deal, it’s expected that bilateral trade will go as high as $35 billion (£25bn) within the next 15 years.

The deal is regarded as particularly important with the rising tensions. However, India is seen as a key growth engine. The free trade agreement is expected to bring both private and public stakeholders together, supporting India’s priorities and vision.

What Can We Expect Next?

While the deal has been confirmed, it won’t come into action for the next year. Still, it could boost the UK’s economy by more than £4bn within the next few years. This belief is strengthened by the growing population of India, which is expected to expand over the next decade.

The UK and India will continue their joint work to finalize the legal context of their business. Once they do, they will start acting on the deal. There are talks about a bilateral investment treaty that aims to attract investors from other countries, but these are still underway. However, we can expect stronger economic ties from both powers.

Morocco Attracts Foreign Investors Through 30% Tax Incentives

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Morocco Attracts Foreign Investors Through 30% Tax Incentives

Morocco Attracts Foreign Investors Through 30% Tax Incentives

Morocco is improving its appeal toward foreign investors by offering tax incentives of up to 30%. This promises to strengthen cultural and economic ties with neighbouring countries while positioning itself as a leading investment destination in Africa and the Mediterranean region.

Karim Zidane, the Minister of Investment in Morocco, pointed out the macroeconomic and political stability of Morocco. It also emphasized the modern infrastructure and strategic location as key strengths. The minister notes how the infrastructure rivals many European countries, perhaps even surpassing them.

Main Sectors for Investment

Morocco offers great potential for multiple sectors for investors. However, priority ones include aeronautics, automobiles, agribusiness, electronics, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and offshoring industries. Emerging sectors such as green energy also draw investors, particularly when it comes to green hydrogen.

The automotive industry has seen the most growth in the past decade. At the moment, Morocco features two manufacturers (Stellantis and Renault) and 250 more international ones. It became the leading export sector of Morocco.

The tax incentive can go as high as 30% of the investment amount. These can grant direct investment subsidies based on the characteristics of the project. Morocco also offers tax exemptions in the first year for those in specific areas or new businesses.

Growth Driven through Sporting Events and Renewable Energy

Zidane explained that Morocco’s development is sped up by recent international sporting events. He explained that the 2025 African Cup of Nations will bring significant growth to the country. He also touched upon the 2030 World Cup, which they will organize alongside Portugal and Spain.

The minister addressed previous challenges in attracting foreign investors due to development needs in high-value sectors. More than 40% of their energy comes from renewable sources and these sectors are vastly improving, with the country investing in major wind and solar projects.

Zidane mentioned that the collaboration with Portugal and Spain for the World Cup is a symbol of mutual trust. He hopes that this will draw enough investors who want to take part in high-level projects.

Strategic Position for EU and US Trading

With the introduction of the US tariffs that took the entire world by storm, Morocco found itself in quite an advantageous position. Zidane credits this to the long-standing relationship between the United States and Morocco, based on a history of trust and strategic commitment.

Morocco is the only country in Africa that enjoys free trade with the U.S., with the agreement active since 2006. This ensures that investors enjoy quick access to the U.S. market for many industries, regardless of the services or goods.

Zidane also mentioned that Morocco was not featured on the tariff table introduced by President Donald Trump, “Liberation Day.” Because of this, companies from Spain or other European countries can continue exporting to the U.S. once they set up a base in Morocco.

Morocco also has a strong diplomatic relationship with Spain, enjoying a trade partnership for more than a decade. Together with the tax incentive, Zidane believes there’s great investment potential, which is only set to expand in the next decade.

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