The Alliance of Sahel States (AES), comprising Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, is considering the establishment of a joint purchasing center. This development was announced by the Malian government on September 28, following a meeting between Prime Minister Abdoulaye Maïga and ministers from the three countries. The proposed center aims to enhance regional trade and cooperation among AES member states.
The meeting, which took place on September 27, was attended by Moussa Alassane Diallo, Malian Minister of Industry and Trade, Abdoulaye Seydou, Nigerien Minister of Trade, and Serge Gnaniodem Poda, Burkinabé Minister of Industry, Trade, and Handicrafts. According to a statement from the Malian Prime Minister's office, the ministers discussed several key issues, including the proposed purchasing center, combating fraud, and administrative procedures for trade within the AES region.
The ministers also reviewed the implementation of the AES's second-year roadmap and the development of a framework document to enhance the attractiveness of the AES region. This document is expected to promote investment and economic growth within the region. Furthermore, the parties emphasized the importance of monitoring product quality and promoting "Made in AES" products.
Earlier in September, ministers from AES countries and private sector representatives met to discuss industrial development, trade, and investment climate. They agreed to initiate negotiations for a new agreement with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The talks focused on promoting regional trade, addressing unfair competition, and improving the business environment.
The proposed joint purchasing center is part of a broader effort to strengthen economic ties among AES member states. By establishing a common purchasing platform, the countries aim to increase their negotiating power, reduce costs, and improve the efficiency of their procurement processes. This initiative is expected to have a positive impact on regional trade and economic development.
The AES was established to promote cooperation and solidarity among its member states, particularly in the areas of security, economy, and development. The alliance aims to foster a more integrated and prosperous region, leveraging the strengths and resources of each member country. The proposed purchasing center is a key component of this strategy, as it seeks to promote regional trade and economic growth.
The next steps in the process will involve further discussions and negotiations among the AES member states. The ministers agreed to continue working together to finalize the details of the proposed purchasing center and to implement the decisions taken during their meeting. The outcome of these efforts is expected to have a significant impact on the economic development of the Sahel region.
Key points
- Sahel countries explore creation of joint purchasing center to boost regional trade and cooperation.
