Integration with Nigeria: Benin plans to establish a special economic zone in Illara

This decision, taken at the Council of Ministers on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, marks the official launch of a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) at the eastern border of the country.

According to the official announcement, this zone will be primarily devoted to the development of value chains around the production and transformation of grains, which are in high demand on the Nigerian market, as well as to other integrated and competitive agri-food sectors.

The strategic position of Illara, in immediate proximity to Nigeria, offers a significant logistical advantage for strengthening sub-regional trade. The stated objective is clear: to turn this site into a modern agri-food industrial hub, capable of attracting investments and generating sustainable jobs.

In accordance with legal provisions, the land release phase has begun. The government assured that the compensation process for the rightful owners has already been initiated in compliance with current regulations.

This initiative translates into action the commitments made by President Patrice Talon at the last ECOWAS summit in Abuja. He had announced Benin’s desire to reach a new milestone in economic integration with Nigeria, its main trading partner.