Why Trade in Comoros
Leading Exporter of Unique Aromatic Plants
Comoros is a world leader in the production and export of ylang-ylang (essential oil for perfumes) and a significant producer of vanilla and cloves, offering high-value niche market opportunities.
Strategic Location in the Indian Ocean
The archipelago is strategically located in the Mozambique Channel, a key maritime route, offering potential for transshipment and maritime services with port development.
Preferential Access to Regional and International Markets
Membership in COMESA, SADC (recent), the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC), and AfCFTA, coupled with an interim Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with the EU, provides favourable access for Comorian products.
Untapped "Blue Economy" Potential
With extensive maritime territory, Comoros has significant untapped potential in fisheries (tuna, demersal fish), aquaculture, and marine-related tourism and services for export.
Growing Potential for Niche Tourism-Related Trade
The unique culture, pristine beaches, marine biodiversity, and volcanic landscapes offer potential for ecotourism and adventure tourism, driving demand for related goods and services.
Focus on Improving Trade Facilitation
The government is working, often with international support, to improve customs procedures, port efficiency (e.g., Moroni, Mutsamudu), and the overall trade environment.
Developing Organic and Fair-Trade Agriculture
Opportunities exist to develop and export organic and fair-trade certified agricultural products, leveraging its traditional farming practices and unique terroir.
Supportive Stance Towards Foreign Investment & Trade
The National Agency for Investment Promotion (ANPI) is mandated to promote and facilitate trade and investment in the country.
Unlock The Potential of Comoros
Comoros presents unique trade and investment opportunities within the Southern African region. Through enhanced trade agreements and regional integration, businesses can tap into emerging markets, improve supply chains, and drive inclusive growth while contributing to Comoros’ economic transformation.
Investment Facts & Figures
$250 Million
FDI Inflows
Annual foreign direct investment into Comoros (2023)
3.2%
GDP Growth
Projected economic growth rate for Comoros (2023–2025)
65%
Young Population
Percentage of population under 25 years old in Comoros
Why Invest in Comoros
Key Comorian Tech-Enabled Opportunities
World Leadership in Aromatic Plant Production
Dominant global position in ylang-ylang and significant production of vanilla and cloves offer secure niche markets with potential for value addition (e.g., essential oil distillation, organic certification).
Vast and Underdeveloped Blue Economy
An Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of approximately 160,000 sq. km offers substantial opportunities in sustainable fisheries (tuna processing), aquaculture, marine biotechnology, and eco-tourism.
Pristine and Untapped Tourism Potential
With volcanic landscapes, diverse marine life, coral reefs, white sandy beaches, and a unique Swahili-Arab African culture, Comoros offers significant potential for ecotourism, boutique resorts, diving, and adventure travel.
Strategic Focus on Renewable Energy
High reliance on imported fossil fuels creates strong incentives for investment in renewable energy, particularly solar, wind, and potentially geothermal (due to volcanic geology).
Government Commitment to Attracting FDI
The National Agency for Investment Promotion (ANPI) provides a framework for investment, offering incentives and facilitation services to foreign and domestic investors.
Developing ICT Sector and Digital Transformation
Improvements in submarine fibre optic connectivity (e.g., FLY-LION3, EASSy cables) are opening opportunities for ICT services, digital entrepreneurship, and e-government initiatives.
Potential for Niche Manufacturing and Services
Opportunities exist for small-scale manufacturing linked to local resources (e.g., cosmetics from essential oils, processed foods, handicrafts) and services supporting tourism and trade.
Peaceful Nation with a Young Population
Comoros is a peaceful country with a youthful demographic that can be trained to support new economic sectors.
Key Investment Sectors in The Comoros
Priority Sector Opportunities in Comoros
Agriculture & Agro-processing (Spices & Essential Oils)
Ylang-ylang, vanilla, cloves, coconuts, bananas, cassava. Opportunities in organic production, value addition (essential oil distillation, spice processing), and export.
Fisheries & Aquaculture (Blue Economy)
Tuna, demersal fish, octopus, lobster. Potential for commercial fishing fleets, fish processing plants, aquaculture (seaweed, sea cucumbers, finfish).
Tourism & Hospitality
Eco-tourism, beach resorts, diving, hiking, cultural tourism. Investment in accommodation, tour operations, marine activities, and related infrastructure.
Renewable Energy
Solar PV (utility-scale and off-grid), wind power, potential for geothermal energy. Focus on reducing reliance on imported diesel.
ICT & Digital Services
Internet services, mobile applications, e-commerce, digital government services. Potential for BPO targeting French-speaking markets with improved connectivity.
Light Manufacturing & Handicrafts
Small-scale production of cosmetics, processed foods, textiles, furniture, and artisanal products for local and tourist markets.
SADC-Aligned Investment Incentives in The Comoros(Facilitated by ANPI)
These incentives support regional development, integration, and competitiveness across Southern Africa in alignment with Malawi's economic cooperation goals.
Tax & Customs Incentives (As per Investment Code)
- Exemptions or reductions on import duties for capital goods and raw materials. Potential tax holidays or reduced corporate tax rates for approved investments in priority sectors.
- VAT exemptions on certain inputs.
Financial & Operational Support
- Access to land (though land tenure can be complex).
- Facilitation of permits and licenses. Guarantees on free transfer of capital and profits (subject to regulations).
Business Support & Facilitation
- ANPI as the central point for investment promotion and facilitation.
- Assistance with company registration and navigating administrative procedures.
- Support for identifying local partners and opportunities.
Success Stories
Illustrative examples given the scale of the economy; focus on potential and established niches
Established Ylang-Ylang and Vanilla Export Chains
Comorian producers and exporters have long-standing relationships with international perfume houses and food ingredient companies for high-quality ylang-ylang, vanilla, and cloves.
Emerging Eco-Tourism Ventures
Small-scale, locally owned, and some foreign-partnered eco-lodges and tourism operators are developing, focusing on the unique natural and cultural attractions of the islands.
Renewable Energy Initiatives (Donor-Supported)
Several projects, often backed by international development finance institutions, are underway or planned to increase the share of renewable energy (mainly solar) in the national grid.
Investment News
Comoros Signs New Regional Trade Agreement to Boost Agricultural Exports
May 15, 2025
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Comoros Tobacco Exports Surge 30% Following New Trade Partnerships
May 10, 2025
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Moroni Transport Corridor Upgrade to Cut Export Costs by 25%
May 5, 2025
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Comoros Launches Digital Trade Platform to Connect Farmers with International Markets
April 28, 2025
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Technology Facts & Figures
32%
Internet Penetration
Population with Internet Access (2023)
53%
Mobile Subscription
Active mobile users in Comoros (2023)
4
Tech Hubs
Innovation & startup centers in key islands
1.4%
ICT Contribution
To Comoros’ GDP (2023 est.)
3
Key Tech Sectors
Including Fintech, eLearning, Telemedicine
1.2%
Fixed Broadband
Estimated household penetration (2023)
Technology Sectors in The Comoros
Priority Sector Opportunities in Comoros
Telecommunications & ICT Infrastructure
Expansion of mobile broadband (3G/4G), development of national fibre optic backbones linking the islands, and leveraging international submarine cable connections (e.g., FLY-LION3, EASSy) are priorities. Comores Telecom is the incumbent operator.
FinTech & Digital Payments
Mobile money services are crucial for financial inclusion in an economy with limited banking penetration. Opportunities exist for digital payment solutions, online banking, and remittance services.
E-Government Services
The government is investing in digitizing public services to improve efficiency, transparency, and accessibility. This includes areas like civil registration, customs, and business permits.
EdTech (Education Technology)
Use of ICT in education for remote learning, digital content delivery, and teacher training is important for improving educational outcomes and skills development, particularly across the different islands.
HealthTech & Digital Health
Digital solutions can improve healthcare delivery, particularly for inter-island medical consultations (telemedicine), patient record management, and health information systems.
AgriTech & Fisheries Tech
Technology can support key sectors like agriculture and fisheries through mobile advisory services, market information platforms, sustainable fishing practices monitoring, and supply chain improvements.
TourismTech
Digital platforms for marketing, booking, and managing tourism services are essential for growing the tourism sector and reaching international markets.
Leading Technology Hubs & Initiatives
Priority Sector Opportunities in Comoros
Moroni (Grande Comore): Main Hub for ICT Activity
As the capital city, Moroni is the centre for government ICT initiatives, the main office of Comores Telecom, emerging tech startups, and any nascent innovation spaces or training centres. Most digital infrastructure development is centred here.
National ICT Development Plans & Policies
The Comorian government, often with the support of international partners (e.g., World Bank, African Development Bank, EU), has developed national strategies for ICT development and digital transformation. These plans guide infrastructure investment, regulatory reforms, and capacity building.
Submarine Cable Landing Points
The landing points for international submarine fibre optic cables are critical pieces of infrastructure that enable much of the digital development across the islands.
Telecommunication Operators
Comores Telecom (incumbent) and any emerging private operators are key players in deploying and managing the telecommunications infrastructure and services.
Donor-Funded Digital Transformation Projects
Many digital initiatives in areas like e-government, digital literacy, and sector-specific ICT applications (e.g., health, education) are supported by international development organisations.
The Comoros Technology News
Comoros Explores Launch of First AI and Innovation Lab
May 5, 2025
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Comoros Begins Feasibility Study for 5G Rollout in Urban Areas
April 30, 2025
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Digital Transformation Project Aims to Empower Comorian Youth
April 26, 2025
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Fintech Startups Push Mobile Financial Access Across Comoros
April 20, 2025
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Unlock The Potential Of Comoros
Comoros holds significant untapped tech potential driven by a growing youth population, improving connectivity, and a desire to modernize key sectors. As mobile and internet penetration expand, opportunities are emerging in fintech, digital education, e-government, and agriculture. Government initiatives and partnerships aimed at enhancing digital infrastructure and skills are laying the groundwork for a vibrant innovation ecosystem that can stimulate economic growth and improve livelihoods across the islands.
Contact Us
Ezekiel Mukanga
1 Mulholland Drive, Chisipite
Harare, Zimbabwe