Beijing, (SONNA) – The Embassy of the Federal Republic of Somalia in the People’s Republic of China hosted the Somalia Industrialization and Special Economic Zones Forum in Beijing, bringing together more than 300 Somali and Chinese business leaders, investors, and representatives of chambers of commerce to explore trade, industrial, and investment opportunities between the two countries.

Held under the theme, "Leveraging China’s Zero-Tariff Policy to Promote Somalia’s Export-Led Industrial Growth,” the forum coincided with celebrations marking the 66th anniversary of Somalia’s Independence and Unity.

In her opening remarks, Somalia’s Ambassador to China, Dr. Hodan Osman Abdi, said China’s zero-tariff policy has created new opportunities for Somalia’s exports and industrialization. She highlighted Somalia’s strategic geographic location, abundant natural resources, and youthful population as key drivers for economic growth and investment.

Minister of Commerce and Industry, H.E. Gamal Mohamed Hassan, outlined the Federal Government’s industrialization agenda and encouraged Chinese companies to invest in Somalia, particularly in fish processing, agriculture, livestock, and energy.

The Executive Director of the Somalia Investment Promotion Office (SOMINVEST), Mohamed Dubo Mohamed, presented Somalia’s investment opportunities, investment incentives, and priority sectors for industrial and economic development.

The forum also showcased flagship projects under Somalia’s National Transformation Plan (NTP), including the New Mogadishu Special Economic Zone, presented by Engineer Ahmed Kirish, who outlined plans for modern ports, airports, industrial zones, and supporting infrastructure.

Business-to-business (B2B) meetings were held on the sidelines of the forum, providing Somali and Chinese companies with opportunities to explore partnerships and investment prospects.

The forum forms part of the Somali Embassy’s ongoing efforts to promote investment, strengthen economic cooperation, and expand trade relations between Somalia and China. It also comes as China’s zero-tariff policy for products from African countries, including Somalia, continues to open new export markets and support Somalia’s industrialization and economic transformation agenda.