AFZ highlights the significance of Special Economic Zones in driving business growth

Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) participated in the Mediterranean and Africa Special Economic Zones Summit in Spain, which was held between May 31 and June 2. The Summit came in line with the MedaLogistics Week, which was part of SIL Barcelona. The Free Zone was represented by Bashayer Ali AlKumaiti AlShamsi, Strategy and Business Development Executive Director, and Sheikha Abdulla Alnuaimi, Commercial Operations Executive Director of AFZ.

While participating in a panel discussion titled “The Growing Role of Special Economic Zones”, AlKumaiti reiterated the importance of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and their impact on businesses from various perspectives. She also highlighted the significance of SEZs during a time of crisis, its role in driving growth in the Mediterranean region and shaping global value chains, and more. The scope of SEZs in driving up skill levels and technological advancements within a region, as well as the impacts of digitalization in the sector, were among other key topics that were explored.

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H.E. Eng. Ali AlSuwaidi, Director General of Ajman Free Zone, said: “Our participation in the summit is in line with our mission to attract foreign investments by providing advanced infrastructure, digital tools, proactive and competitive services, and flexible legislation that can make investing in the emirate and UAE a unique experience. This will undoubtedly improve Ajman's competitive advantage in attracting foreign direct investments (FDI), create new investment opportunities, and foster ease of doing business in the emirate.”

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As part of their participation, AFZ’s delegation met with Blanca?Sorigué, the Managing Director of the Consorci de la Zona Franca in Barcelona (CZFB), and Diego Gaitán Galindo, General Manager of Zona Franca de Bogota (Bogota Free Trade), in addition to a group of officials, investors, and businessmen. The delegation and the participating free zones further explored mutual collaboration prospects that are set to promote investment and expansion plans for both parties. AFZ’s delegation also highlighted their integrated portfolio of services and facilities that keep up with the needs of investors within 22 different sectors, including e-commerce and logistic services.

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Moreover, the delegation visited the CZFB’s business center, “Dfactory”, which offers various services in support of companies working in the technology sector and contributes to the implementation of various innovations in the fields of transportation and services.

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The participation of AFZ in the Summit promoted its position as a global business destination, as well as its role in driving businesses and empowering them with an inclusive business environment, a state-of-the-art infrastructure, diversified services, and advanced solutions, in line with the development vision and strategy of Ajman and the UAE.?