About Africa Logistics Zone (ALZ)

Dear Members,

With reference to a communication received from the Kotonu Trade Office, it is stated that the "Africa Logistics Zone" (ALZ) is being established as a strategic logistics project structured within the Autonomous Port of Cotonou (PAC) to strengthen Benin's commercial dominance in West Africa. ALZ, focusing on high value-added logistics activities, holds the status of a Special Economic Zone (SEZ), and its structuring efforts are ongoing. The operational management of the zone is being conducted within the framework of a strategic partnership between the Government of Benin and Port of Antwerp-Bruges International (PoABI).

The communication further states that ALZ offers specialized areas and financial incentives for value-added operations beyond standard warehousing, such as packaging, labeling, light industry, and assembly. Among the targeted industrial sectors are automotive/machinery (assembly and spare parts), equipment, technology, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), and pharmaceuticals. Under pre-applications and site allocation, letters of intent and reservation agreements are being collected from strategic investors, and site allocation plans for large-scale logistics firms are being developed. The master plan for the zone is expected to be finalized by the end of March 2026.

Tenders for superstructure and/or construction works are planned to be launched in the second quarter of 2026, including a tender for the construction of a warehouse approximately 5,000 m2 in size. The zone is projected to reach full operational capacity by the end of 2027, complete with social facilities, integrated digital customs systems, and all specialized storage units. Additionally, tenders for ALZ's superstructure, warehouse construction, operations, and equipment are expected to be accessible by the end of April 2026. Companies in the aforementioned sectors are advised to contact the ALZ representative (Mr. Carius TCHEDEDJI, Project Manager, email: ctchededji@alz.pac.bj). For further details, you may contact the Kotonu Trade Office (kotonu@ticaret.gov.tr).