The Transformative Potential of the AfCFTA: Advancing Africa’s Economic Integration

The Conference of African Ministers of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development convenes at a pivotal moment for the continent’s economic trajectory. Under the theme “Advancing the implementation of the Agreement Establishing the African Continental Free Trade Area: proposing transformative strategic actions,” this year’s gathering seeks to address critical aspects of Africa’s trade and economic integration. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) represents more than just a trade agreement—it is a blueprint for Africa’s economic transformation and a platform for collective action in global economic affairs.

The AfCFTA is a groundbreaking initiative that seeks to boost intra-African trade, industrialisation, and economic integration. To realise its full potential, bold strategies and strong political will are required.

The Urgency of Economic Integration

The multilateral trading system is facing significant disruptions worldwide. In light of these challenges, Africa must take decisive action to harness the opportunities offered by the AfCFTA. One pressing concern is Africa’s continued dependence on imported goods, such as fertilisers and refined petroleum products, despite the continent’s capacity to produce them locally. Addressing self-imposed trade barriers and enhancing intra-African trade mechanisms could significantly bolster economic resilience.

AfCFTA is not merely about trade liberalisation—it is a transformative framework designed to enhance industrialisation, foster economic diversification, and improve Africa’s standing in the global marketplace. By creating a unified market, the AfCFTA has the potential to propel Africa towards self-sufficiency and reduce reliance on external markets.

ECA’s Role in Africa’s Economic Journey

The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) has been a steadfast advocate of regional and continental integration since before the establishment of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) in 1963. Over the past six decades, Africa has made significant strides, yet challenges persist. The AfCFTA represents a critical milestone in the journey towards the African Economic Community, and the ECA remains committed to supporting member states in realising this vision.

Currently, approximately 85% of Africa’s total exports are directed outside the continent, with over 60% of these exports consisting of primary commodities. In contrast, intra-African trade is far more diversified, with industrial products making up a substantial portion. This underscores the transformative potential of the AfCFTA, as reducing tariffs and non-tariff barriers could increase intra-African trade by 45% by 2045. The agrifood and industrial sectors stand to benefit significantly, creating unprecedented opportunities for industrialisation, food security, and economic complementarity among African nations.

Industrialisation and Value Addition: The Cornerstones of AfCFTA

The 2015 Economic Report on Africa (ERA), titled “Industrialising through trade”, underscored the role of trade in accelerating Africa’s industrialisation. A decade later, its core principles remain valid—strategic trade policies are essential to overcoming market inefficiencies and fostering resource-driven industrialisation. One notable initiative in this regard is the DRC-Zambia battery and electric vehicle transboundary special economic zone, which exemplifies the AfCFTA’s potential to drive value addition and technological advancement.

Beyond policy frameworks, the successful implementation of the AfCFTA requires political will and decisive action to remove structural barriers. The free movement of people within Africa is crucial to maximising the benefits of the AfCFTA, yet the Protocol on the Free Movement of Persons, adopted in 2018, has only received four ratifications to date. Addressing such bottlenecks will be instrumental in realising the full benefits of economic integration.

Bridging the Infrastructure Gap

Infrastructure development is integral to the success of the AfCFTA. A 2022 study on the implications of the AfCFTA for transport infrastructure revealed that an estimated USD 411 billion in transport investments will be required to facilitate trade across the continent. This includes investments in new vessels, aircraft, rail wagons, and trucks to ensure the efficient movement of goods across borders. Expanding railway infrastructure and fleets alone could increase intra-African trade by 5.5%, from less than 1% today to nearly 7%. Recognising this, multilateral development banks are increasingly stepping up efforts to de-risk investments and support infrastructure expansion.

Empowering the Private Sector for Economic Growth

Despite the AfCFTA’s vast potential, awareness remains a significant challenge. Many African businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), are unaware of the agreement’s provisions and benefits. This lack of information is a major obstacle to increasing intra-African trade. To address this, comprehensive outreach, education, and capacity-building initiatives must be prioritised.

The private sector plays a critical role in the operationalisation of the AfCFTA. Without active engagement from businesses, trade volumes will remain stagnant. Governments must, therefore, create enabling environments that facilitate cross-border commerce, including streamlined customs procedures, reduced bureaucratic hurdles, and harmonised trade policies.

Strategic Actions for a Stronger AfCFTA Implementation

To ensure the successful implementation of the AfCFTA, ratification and implementation of key protocols must be expedited, particularly those related to investment, competition, and intellectual property. Infrastructure development through public-private partnerships and multilateral development financing is crucial to facilitating efficient trade routes across Africa. Policy harmonisation and trade facilitation, including the elimination of non-tariff barriers, standardised regulatory frameworks, and enhanced trade-related infrastructure, will further bolster intra-African trade.

Capacity building and information dissemination should be prioritised to increase awareness among businesses, especially SMEs. Training programmes and digital platforms will enable the private sector to take full advantage of the AfCFTA. Additionally, leveraging digital trade and e-commerce will enhance market access, streamline trade processes, and support the participation of women and youth entrepreneurs in regional trade.

The Way Forward: A Bold and Collective Vision

The 2025 Economic Report on Africa, set to be launched during the Ministerial segment of this conference, aims to provide empirical insights into the state of AfCFTA implementation. The report will focus on assessing the progress of AfCFTA implementation, identifying key challenges and opportunities, and proposing actionable recommendations to bridge existing gaps.

As African leaders and policymakers deliberate on transformative strategic actions, boldness, creativity, and collaboration will be key to achieving the AfCFTA’s full potential. A prosperous Africa, unified under a common trade agenda, is not only beneficial to the continent but also presents a lucrative market for global businesses. By advancing the AfCFTA, Africa can reposition itself as a competitive economic powerhouse in the global arena.

In conclusion, realising the vision of an integrated, prosperous, and self-sustaining Africa requires unwavering commitment from governments, businesses, and development partners. As this conference unfolds, let us seize this opportunity to shape the future of African trade and economic development with determination and strategic foresight.