Lebogang Zulu takes part at the International Forum on Free Trade Zones Development 2024

In a recent engaging participation at the International Forum on Free Trade Zones Development 2024, held from December 17th to 19th, Ms. Lebogang Zulu, Executive Chairperson of BRICS Women’s Business Alliance South Africa, made significant contributions that highlighted the strategic importance of Free Trade Zones (FTZs) in the global economic landscape.

Ms. Zulu commenced her involvement with a thorough inspection of the Sanya Free Trade Zone, identifying collaboration and investment opportunities that could benefit both South Africa and the broader BRICS community. In a subsequent high-level closed-door meeting, she championed the need for deeper cooperation between FTZs and advocated for the establishment of a permanent institutional platform to facilitate ongoing communication and exchange among these zones.

During the forum’s keynote speeches and plenary sessions, Ms. Zulu emphasized the development of open cooperation systems that ensure mutual benefits and win-win outcomes for all nations involved. She articulated a compelling vision for the role of FTZs within BRICS, stressing the importance of establishing trading avenues that are resilient against the dominant influences of unipolarity in global trade. This approach aims to leverage the shift towards a multipolar global power architecture, ensuring that these economic zones act as catalysts for sustainable growth and development.

Furthermore, Ms. Zulu highlighted the necessity of inclusive economic policies within FTZs, particularly advocating for the support of women entrepreneurs. This aligns with the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance’s mission to economically empower women, promoting policies that support inclusive economic growth within these dynamic zones.

Her contributions at the forum were instrumental in shaping the discourse around strategic deployment of FTZs within BRICS, positioning the alliance as a key influencer in global economic policies. The discussions led to preliminary agreements on enhancing cooperative frameworks between the FTZs of BRICS nations, fostering economic resilience and inclusive growth.

Ms. Zulu’s participation has not only elevated the dialogue on global economic cooperation but has also paved the way for more integrated and robust economic relationships among emerging economies. Her insights underscore the importance of diversification and resilience in building strong global trade networks, reinforcing BRICS’s role in shaping a more balanced and equitable global economic order.