This regional integration relies particularly on identifying strategic sectors and economic complementarities, aiming to promote specialization and implement trade tools tailored to the needs of each African country, Akhannouch emphasized in a speech delivered on his behalf by the Minister of Economic Inclusion, Small Business, Employment, and Skills, Younes Sekkouri, during the opening of the African SME Forum, held on the sidelines of the Africa Investment Forum.

Exchanges between countries play a crucial role as a tool to establish win-win partnerships that benefit both states and their populations, he noted, stressing that challenges must be addressed by identifying key sectors, the efforts required, and the types of investments needed.

Furthermore, he underlined that the economic transformations initiated by institutions require a redefinition of sectoral boundaries to foster the creation of sustainable jobs and support economic growth.

Akhannouch also highlighted the importance of ensuring equitable wealth distribution, incorporating all populations into the development process.

This forum follows the African Employers' Dialogue held in Casablanca in October 2022 and aims to strengthen continental economic integration by proposing innovative and sustainable solutions to accelerate the continent’s industrialization and maximize the opportunities offered by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

It brings together delegations from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from about twenty African countries, strategic public partners, and financial backers, all committed to African economic development and integration.