SENEGAL
Port of Dakar Sees Drop in Traffic in June
The Port of Dakar has seen a significant decline in cargo traffic, according to recent data from the National Agency for Statistics and Demography (ANSD). In June 2024, port activity dropped by 19.2% compared to the previous month, largely due to a sharp decrease in incoming shipments. General goods were hit the hardest, with a drop of nearly 45%, followed by a reduction in refined hydrocarbons.
Exports also suffered, particularly in fish products, which saw a 15.4% decline. Overall serviced traffic at the port decreased by 21.1% during this period. This marks a continued downward trend, as April also saw a drop in activity, with a notable decline in general goods and seafood shipments.
Despite the overall slowdown, there was some positive news, container traffic rose slightly with the port handling more TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) in May compared to April. However, the broader trend remains a short-term decline, with both imports and exports continuing to decrease.
In 2022, the port managed a total of 22.4 million tons of cargo, but current figures suggest a challenging period ahead.
Sources: www.agenceecofin.com
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BURKINA FASO
Burkina Faso Bans Imports of Weaving Yarn and Woven Loincloths
Burkina Faso is a leading cotton producer in Africa and is taking steps to strengthen its domestic cotton-textile-clothing value chain. The country processes less than 10% of its cotton production locally. The government has implemented a ban on the import of weaving yarn and woven loincloths, effective from 24 September 2024.
The government wants to encourage the local production of cotton and support the development of domestic production facilities. This measurement has been taken to reduce reliance on imported textiles and create more value within the country by processing raw cotton into yarn, fabric, and clothing domestically.
The authorities have given economic operators, with valid import authorisations for weaving yarns and woven loincloths, 3 months from the start date of 24 September to complete their import procedures. Once this period is over, the licences will be invalid. Businesses with existing stocks of imported woven yarns and loincloths are required to make a declaration to the Brigade Mobile de Contrôle Économique et de la Répression des Fraudes (BMCRF) or the Ministry of Trade’s regional offices.
Furthermore, the traditional woven loincloth ‘Faso danfani’ has a protected geographical indication (PGI) since 2019. This status safeguards the authenticity of over 400 unique designs, crafted by women from different regions of the country, and includes by a logo to prevent counterfeiting.
Sources: www.agenceecofin.com
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AFRICA
African Maritime Diplomacy: A Strategy for Sustainable Development
African maritime diplomacy plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable development across the continent. Morocco stands out as a leader in this field, focusing on strengthening maritime cooperation among African nations. This cooperation aims to boost economic growth and generate millions of jobs by 2030.
Key to Morocco’s strategy are its strategic ports, such as Tanger Med and the upcoming Dakhla Atlantic port, which connect Africa to global markets. Safeguarding these maritime routes from threats like piracy and organized crime is essential for securing the region's economic future.
Additionally, Morocco’s emphasis on industrialization, the promotion of intra-African trade, and a commitment to environmental sustainability, particularly through maritime renewable energy, further strengthens its role in shaping Africa’s maritime landscape.
Sources: maritimafrica.com
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