Corridors Trade Sustainability &Investment Promotion

Promoting Resilience and integrated

DP World Economic Zones – Berbera (BEZ)

January 30, 2026

DP World Economic Zones
EN FR

DP World Economic Zones – Berbera (BEZ) is a major trade and logistics hub in Somaliland, developed by DP World and the Somaliland government, modeled after Dubai's Jebel Ali Free Zone to boost regional trade, attract investment, and create jobs in the Horn of Africa. It offers business-friendly incentives, world-class infrastructure, and integration with the Port of Berbera for easy market access to landlocked Ethiopia and beyond, featuring serviced land, warehouses, build-to-suit facilities, and a one-stop-shop for business setup combining maritime, logistics, and industrial activities.

Agri-bulk import & storage

January 30, 2026

Bulk grain handling
EN FR

Efficient handling of staple grains to strengthen regional food security. The agri-bulk facilities are ready there to be utilized to handle high volumes with precision, ensuring that critical food supplies reach their destination safely and efficiently.

Berbera Container Terminal

January 30, 2026

Berbera Terminal
EN FR

Modern port facilities enabling faster, more reliable trade flows. The Berbera Container Terminal is a state-of-the-art facility serving as a vital gateway for the region, equipped with advanced technology to handle the demands of global trade.

Regional Rail Connectivity

January 30, 2026

Railway Connectivity
EN FR

COTSIO is committed to promoting none tariff barrier free, green transition, sustainable and efficient Regional inland connectivity across the region through regional organisations, governments and Intergovernmental organisations across the region.

Focus areas

Where we make trade more inclusive.

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Investor Facilitation & Aftercare

January 30, 2026

Investor Facilitation
EN FR

Helping investors navigate regulations, connect with local partners and receive ongoing support after entry. Our goal is to create a seamless journey for investors, providing the necessary guidance and support to ensure long-term success in the region.

Trade Sustainability Initiative

January 30, 2026

Sustainability
EN FR
  • • Promoting Green Shipping sustainability strategies by complying IMO-GHG emission reduction initiatives.
  • • Promoting integration of Paperless cross-border trade with Regional Authorities, UN, and partners.
  • • Localisation of UN-SDGs.
  • • Supporting Green Energy Transition in ports and logistics.
  • • Supply Chain resilience program establishment.
  • • Harmonize trade, transport, and transit regulations across Horn of Africa.
  • • Simplify investment laws, licensing, and permits for corridor projects.
  • • Support PPP frameworks for logistics, roads, dry ports, and industrial zones.
  • • Digitize customs, cargo tracking, and clearance systems.
  • • Reduce non-tariff barriers and informal costs.

Investment Promotion & Outreach

January 30, 2026

Investment Outreach
EN FR
  • • Developing a Corridor investment prospectus.
  • • Target investors in Logistics, Agro-processing, Manufacturing, and Energy.
  • • Conduct B2B matchmaking and investor aftercare.
  • • Mobilize funding from DFIs and development banks.
  • • Support local SMEs’ access to finance along the corridor.
  • • Ensure compliance with environmental and social safeguards.
  • • Manage community engagement.

Trade Facilitation & Export Enablement

January 30, 2026

Trade Facilitation
EN FR

COTSIO is promoting Investment and facilitating the Trade through civil society sectorial inclusivity.

  • • Reducing paperwork for imports, exports, and transit goods
  • • Supporting implementation of single-window systems in collaboration with international partners and regional stakeholders.
  • • Supporting Coordination of customs, port authorities, and regulatory agencies at regional level.
  • • Facilitating Speeding up release of goods through digitalizations innovations.
  • • Transit Trade skill developments for government personnel and private partners.
  • • Port & Logistic project Coordinations
  • • Supporting one-stop service centres at the port and inland depots.
  • • Facilitating communication between DP World, customs, shipping lines, and traders
  • • Trade Information & Advisory Services
  • • Offering help desks for traders and relevant associations.
  • • Reducing Trade Costs & Delays
  • • Standards, Quality & Compliance Support
  • • Facilitating local exporters meet regional and international standards
  • • Promoting the Capacity Building program for customs officers, port staff, and border officials.
  • • Building skills for public and private institutions through international partners.
  • • Strengthening institutions involved in trade and transport though capacity building programs in collaboration with international partners.
  • • Policy Coordination & Regional Integration Support for implementation of AfCFTA commitments.
  • • Advising government on trade and transport policies

Women & Youth in Trade

January 30, 2026

Women & Youth
EN FR

Increasing opportunities and access to finance, skills and markets for women and young entrepreneurs. We are dedicated to removing the barriers that prevent women and youth from fully participating in trade, empowering them to build sustainable businesses and contribute to the region's prosperity.

Compliance & Risk Management

January 30, 2026

Compliance
EN FR

Supporting firms to meet ESG, quality and due-diligence standards while managing supply-chain and market risks. We help businesses navigate the complex landscape of international standards, ensuring they remain competitive and responsible in their operations.

Enterprise & Supplier Development

January 30, 2026

Enterprise Development
EN FR

Building the capabilities of local enterprises and suppliers to integrate into high-value regional and global value chains. We empower local businesses with the skills and resources they need to thrive in a competitive market, fostering economic growth and resilience across the region.

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