banker awards

Morocco Launches “Made in Morocco” Label to Boost Industrial Sovereignty

Morocco unveiled its “Made in Morocco” label during the third National Industry Day held November 3-4 in Rabat, marking a strategic push to enhance manufacturing competitiveness and territorial development under royal patronage. Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch highlighted infrastructure investments supporting industrial growth, including Tanger Med Port, over 1,800 kilometers of highways, 157 industrial zones, and […]

Benin ‘greenlights’ exports of Niger’s oil following China’s mediation

Benin and Niger finally appear to have resolved their trade dispute following the mediation by the Chinese government, which has led Benin to lift the blockade preventing Niger’s oil export through its territory to China. Tensions between the two West African neighbors began last year after Niger’s ruling junta ousted the country’s democratically elected president […]

New U.S. visa fee sparks backlash over barriers to African travelers

A new U.S. policy introducing a non-waivable $250 “visa integrity fee” for nonimmigrant visa applicants — particularly from African nations — has drawn sharp criticism for raising barriers to travel, education, and business. Part of the recently enacted One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025, the fee applies to nearly all visa categories, including tourist […]