Unlocking Opportunities for African SMEs
The Fes-Meknes Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Services has issued a compelling invitation to local businesses to take advantage of the "TradeRoots Africa" program. This initiative, launched by the Entrepreneurship Center of the International Chamber of Commerce, aims to enhance the capacity of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Africa to access continental markets and expand their export activities. The initiative promotes a transformative shift from the mindset of "I can export" to "I export," targeting the support of 1,000 African SMEs by equipping them with essential knowledge, tools, and networking opportunities necessary for boosting their trade within Africa, particularly within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area and regional economic groups.
Through this call to action, the Fes-Meknes Chamber of Commerce seeks to encourage enterprises within the region to seize this opportunity to open up to African markets and enhance their readiness for export. The program is structured around six key pillars, which include international trade knowledge, trade financing, logistics and customs, digital trade, guidance and support, as well as the development and qualification of businesses. The "TradeRoots Africa" program offers a three-tiered pathway; the first level focuses on the fundamentals of trade and export readiness, the second aims to enhance digital skills and expertise across various sectors, while the third level is designed to accelerate export activities by providing access to real business opportunities and the possibility of establishing trade transactions.
Eligibility and Regional Focus
The program, which has set a deadline of October 15 for registration, is implemented in partnership with national committees and chambers of commerce under the International Chamber of Commerce, along with several key partners, to bring participating businesses closer to the networks and opportunities necessary for their international development. To qualify for the program, businesses must be small or medium-sized enterprises owned by Africans, have been operational for at least two years, and achieve an annual turnover of no less than $5,000, with no upper limit specified. Additionally, their headquarters must be located in one of the countries covered by the program, including Morocco.
Besides Morocco, the program currently targets businesses based in Botswana, Cameroon, Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Tunisia, and Uganda. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to enhance the internationalization of African SMEs, stimulate intra-African trade, and enable businesses to better capitalize on the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area.
As reported by adyare.ma.
