Category: Economy

** The fragile balance of trade: Trump’s new price war **

On April 2, 2025, Donald Trump announced daring tariff measures in order to “rebalance” American trade. This series of new customs duties, intended to reduce an increasing trade deficit, could cause major impact not only for the American economy, but also on global trade relations, in particular towards Europe. In a context of growing protectionism, countries like the United Kingdom and China also adopt similar measures, exacerbating tensions.

Although France, with its low trade deficit vis-à-vis the United States, seems less exposed, it is not immune to negative impacts, especially in key sectors such as aeronautics and the wine industry. European economies like Germany and Italy, more dependent on exports, could suffer more from this tariff war.

Globally, this rise in protectionism jeopardizes fragile economic growth, while Europe, already in the grip of internal challenges, must be united under a constructive dialogue to avoid a major commercial conflict. The challenge is to transform this crisis into an opportunity to promote more solid international cooperation, essential to a sustainable economic future. The next few weeks will be decisive because they could redefine trade beyond the simple tariff measures.

** Administrative revolution in the DRC: the turning point towards biometrics for a modern state **

From April 2025, the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) will launch an ambitious biometric census program of agents and civil servants, marking a decisive stage in the modernization of its public administration. Faced with pressing budgetary challenges, this initiative aims to rationalize the workforce, fight against payroll fraud and guarantee better transparency in the management of public funds. The project, while promising substantial savings, aspires to restore the confidence of citizens, after decades of corruption and mismanagement. If challenges of implementation are looming, the government’s commitment to inform and raise awareness of agents will be crucial for the success of this transformation. In the end, this biometric turning point may well lay the foundations for a more responsible state and an environment conducive to economic development, making tangible changes in the life of the Congolese.

## Degradation of infrastructure in North Kivu: a social alert signal

The collapse of the bridge over the Lenda river in Lubero highlights the glaring challenges facing the communities of North Kivu. This bridge, essential for access to fields and schools, symbolized much more than a simple structure; He represented a vital link for economic and social development. Infrastructural negligence exacerbates the precariousness of farmers, now unable to join their land, and threaten the education of thousands of students.

The tragedy of a death in a crossing attempt shows that the lack of reliable infrastructure has fatal consequences. While local authorities call for urgent action, it becomes imperative to rethink investment priorities and community engagement to rebuild not only bridges, but also future prospects in this region in distress. The question is not simply to repair, but to build solid foundations for sustainable development.

** CMOC: a new breath for the mineral industry and the energy transition **

In 2024, China Molybdenum Co. Ltd. (CMOC) stands out for impressive financial results in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), displaying a net profit of 1.9 billion USD, up 64 %. While copper and cobalt become crucial for electric batteries and global energy transition, CMOC stands out as a key player, with record production of 650,161 tonnes of copper and 114,165 tonnes of cobalt.

However, beyond the figures, CMOC emphasizes an exploitation model that combines profitability and social responsibility. With a 200 MW hydroelectric project in the DRC and investments of 40.92 million USD in community initiatives, the company aims to reduce its carbon footprint while contributing to local development. However, questions remain as to the depth of this commitment and the way in which it could influence its international image.

Faced with geopolitical challenges and growing transparency requirements, CMOC will have to navigate a complex environment to maintain its leading position. In this era of energy transition, CMOC path could well serve as a model for sustainable mining, where economic performance and social values ​​meet. It is this ability to evolve and forge balanced relationships that will determine CMOC’s lasting impact on the world economy.

** Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger: a new promising but risky customs policy a recent customs initiative in the Sahel marks a turning point for Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger. By establishing a customs right of 0.5 % on products imported from countries not members of the Alliance of the States of the Sahel (AES), these nations seek to strengthen their economic autonomy and to promote regional solidarity. This levy, intended to feed local budgets and promote development, is part of a context of increased sovereignty in the face of external influences. However, this approach raises concerns about the potential fragmentation of the West African economy and the legitimacy of military governments in power. While leaders must ensure that this measure will not result in price increases for consumers, the future of AES will depend on a delicate balance between economic progress and social aspirations of local populations. **

** Title: Egypt: Towards a lasting logistics revolution **

Egypt is preparing to experience a major transformation in its logistics sector, driven by the daring initiative of the Ministry of Transport. With a port capacity up 30 % over the past three years, the country aspires to become a regional transportation crossroads. To achieve this, it is not enough to build new infrastructure: the integration of advanced technologies, such as blockchain and IoT, is essential to modernize logistics. Inspired by the Dubai model, Egypt could offer tax incentives and create areas exempt from customs duties to attract investors.

However, this logistical revolution must also take into account environmental issues. By adopting sustainable practices, such as the use of electric vehicles, Egypt could not only reduce its carbon footprint, but also position itself as a model to follow. In addition, the development of new ports and logistics areas could generate thousands of jobs and boost the local economy, thereby reducing unemployment.

With a collective commitment between the public, private, and civil society, the logistical future of Egypt could really become an engine of growth for the whole region. The time is for action: the potential is there, provided you trace the right path.

** Africa, a laboratory of social innovations: the initiatives of Mario Nderngue Djiraibaye and Eugène Rwagasore **

While Africa faces huge challenges in terms of energy access and digital connectivity, two enlightened entrepreneurs, Mario Nderngue Djiraibaye and Eugène Rwagasore, emerge as key players in this change. Djiraibaye, with its G2E Mountara start-up, aims to revolutionize the energy sector in Chad thanks to lasting solutions, while Rwagasore, via Pindo, uses artificial intelligence to promote digital inclusion and eliminate barriers to Internet access. Their commitment to real social causes testifies to a new generation of entrepreneurs who wish to transform challenges into opportunities. With media support like that of Denise Epoté on Fatshimetrics, these initiatives could inspire other actors and catalyze a movement towards sustainable and inclusive development on the continent. Yes, Africa is running towards a promising future, where innovation and social conscience are united to transform lives.

### American interference and European economic sovereignty: a necessary turning point

The recent exchange between Patrick Martin, President of Medef, and the United States Embassy bursts a latent tension in transatlantic relations: how to preserve European economic sovereignty in the face of American expectations in terms of inclusion and diversity. By denouncing American interventions as “inadmissible”, Martin calls for defending European values ​​in a context where the interconnection of the markets complicates the notion of sovereignty.

This debate raises a crucial question: at what price should French companies meet international standards to remain competitive while respecting their internal values? While a majority of consumers favors the marks engaged in these issues, a balance must be found. In response, the European Union could assert itself by developing its own inclusion standards, thus proving that the defense of ethical values ​​can also be a lever to strengthen its place on the world economic scene.

It is not only an economic subject, but a real reflection on European identity at a time marked by increasing geopolitical tensions. The choices that are taking shape today could have disproportionate repercussions on the future of resilient and prosperous Europe.

### Africa in the face of black gold rush: opportunities and challenges of energy development

Africa, with its new oil discoveries in Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire, is positioned as a key player in global energy geopolitics. However, this emergence raises pressing questions: who really benefits from these resources? Promises of economic development often hide a reality of exploitation and mismanagement. While the continent navigates between the imperatives of an energy transition and the increased exploitation of its fossil resources, the example of Senegal, which combines oil and renewable energies initiatives, offers a glimmer of hope. International oil companies, while providing investments, can also exacerbate inequalities. In order for Africa to transform this black gold rush into a real development lever, it is crucial to adopt a transparency and social justice approach, ensuring that wealth benefit above all local communities.

### Chad: the suspension of American visas, a blow for socio-economic fabric

On March 27, 2023, the Chadian Foreign Ministry announced an unexpected suspension of American visas for Chadian nationals, directly affecting tourism, education and diplomatic relations between the two countries. This measure, initially perceived as bureaucratic, turns out to be a major obstacle to development. Almost 40 % of Chadian students are moving towards the United States for their studies, and the closure of this path could lead to a crisis of skills in key sectors such as health and engineering.

Chadian tourism, already tested by the pandemic, also sees the consequences of this suspension, which threatens to deprive craftsmen and entrepreneurs of vital financial resources. Diplomatic relations, already fragile, could be more compromised, especially in a context where Chad security is under strict surveillance.

However, this challenge could encourage Chad to strengthen its dialogue with the United States, paving the way for essential internal reforms and increased cooperation. In short, this situation highlights the interdependence of nations and the importance of proactive diplomacy to build a shared future.