Dear Member,

In a letter sent to our Chamber from the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB), it is stated that the “Africa Logistics Zone” (ALZ), a strategic logistics project structured within the Autonomous Port of Cotonou (PAC) to consolidate Benin’s commercial dominance in West Africa, is being established.

It is stated that the ALZ, which focuses on high value-added logistics activities, has Special Economic Zone (SEZ) status, that structuring works are ongoing, and that the operational management of the zone is carried out within the framework of a strategic partnership between the Government of Benin and the Port of Antwerp-Bruges International (PoABI).

It is reported that the ALZ offers special areas and financial incentives for value-added operations beyond standard warehousing, such as packaging, labeling, light industry, and assembly; and that the foreseen industrial sectors include automotive/machinery (assembly and spare parts), equipment, technology, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), and pharmaceuticals.

It is stated that letters of intent and reservation agreements are being collected from strategic investors during the pre-application and land allocation process; land allocation plans are being developed for large-scale logistics companies; and the region's master plan will be finalized by the end of March 2026.

It is planned that tenders for superstructure and/or construction works will be opened in the second quarter of 2026; a separate tender process is foreseen for the construction of a warehouse of approximately 5,000 m²; and the region aims to reach full operational capacity by the end of 2027 with social facilities, integrated digital customs systems, and specialized warehousing units.

Furthermore, it is stated that tenders for ALZ superstructure, warehouse construction, operations, and equipment are expected to be accessible towards the end of April 2026; and companies operating in these sectors are advised to contact ALZ Project Manager Mr. Carius TCHEDEDJI (email: ctchededji@alz.pac.bj) directly. 

For detailed information on this matter, please contact the Kotonu Trade Attaché Office (kotonu@ticaret.gov.tr). 

For your information.