MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somalia is moving to strengthen its position in the East African market as the country seeks to use its EAC membership to expand trade, attract investment and support industrial development.

Regional trade organisations are encouraging businesses across the East African Community to explore opportunities in Somalia, particularly as Mogadishu works to integrate Somali companies more deeply into the bloc's expanding single market.

The development could create new opportunities for Somali exporters, manufacturers, logistics companies and investors, while improving access to regional customers and supply chains.

Somalia's government is also increasing its focus on industrialisation and investment. More than 30 Chinese companies recently participated in a Somalia-China business forum in Mogadishu, highlighting growing international commercial interest in the country's economic opportunities.

For Somali businesses, deeper EAC integration could provide a larger market and new routes for regional expansion, particularly in trade, agriculture, manufacturing, logistics and services.

The push comes as Somalia seeks to diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on traditional sources of income while building stronger links with neighbouring markets.