AIM Congress 2025 Highlights Investment Cooperation Opportunities Between UAE, Japan, And Africa

During the AIM Congress 2025, a session titled "Japan Talks: Innovations Shaping the World" highlighted Japan's advancements in technology and industry. Japanese leaders shared insights on next-generation innovations. Miho Sato from Yokosuka Research Park discussed Japan's strides in 6G development aimed at smart cities. "We are building the infrastructure to support future urban innovation through 6G and collaborative R&D," said Sato.

Rashid Al Teneiji from the UAE Ministry of Economy encouraged stronger ties between Japan and the UAE. He expressed hope that the discussions would foster deeper cooperation. "I hope today's dialogue serves as a launchpad for deeper cooperation between Japan and the UAE," he stated.

Hiroshi Miura of NTT DATA Group introduced IOWN technology, which enhances global data transmission. He explained its potential impact on various sectors, including finance and health. "IOWN enables high bandwidth and low latency through light-based data transfer—poised to transform sectors like finance and health," Miura noted.

Takaaki Nakamura from NIFCO Inc. highlighted sustainable manufacturing practices and their extensive product reach in Japan. "You cannot go more than one metre in Japan without being next to a NIFCO product," remarked Nakamura, emphasising their widespread presence.

Africa's SEZ Evolution

The Africa Regional Forum focused on transforming Special Economic Zones (SEZs) into innovation-driven ecosystems. Laura Paez from the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) highlighted the growth of SEZs in Africa, noting their increase from 20 in the 1990s to over 237 by 2020. However, challenges remain in diversification and infrastructure.

"There are more than 200 SEZs currently operational across the continent, with varying levels of success. The emerging SEZ 2.0 model emphasises technology, regional integration, and local value creation aligned with development goals," Paez explained.

Sustainable Industrialisation

Jasveer Singh from Arise IIP stressed sustainable industrialisation through public-private partnerships. He said, "We focus on identifying industrial gaps and enabling value-added production at scale through public-private partnerships. Our zones are not just industrial parks — they are platforms for inclusive economic transformation."

Dr. Manuel Francisco Pedro of Luanda-Bengo SEZ in Angola underscored the importance of governance and infrastructure for SEZ success. He mentioned that aligning SEZs with AfCFTA goals is crucial for boosting intra-African trade and creating a favourable investment climate.

The discussions at AIM Congress 2025 showcased significant technological advancements and collaborative opportunities between nations like Japan and regions such as Africa. These dialogues aim to drive innovation, sustainability, and economic growth globally.

With inputs from WAM