The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat has indicated that Africa can increase trade among its member states to at least 30% if governments implement the necessary regulatory and infrastructure reforms.
Intra-African trade currently accounts for between 14% and 18%, falling short of the African Union’s target of 30%.
Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Wednesday, November 4, Dr. Makong Tsotetsi, Director of Coordination and Programmes at the AfCFTA Secretariat said the continent must deepen its economic integration by removing barriers that make it difficult for businesses to trade across national borders.
Also read: Gov’t ponders light rail to replace Aayalolo contra-flow system – Ayariga
Dr. Tsotetsi identified stringent regulations and difficulties in meeting product standards as some of the challenges restricting the movement of goods within the continent.
He said women and young people, in particular, face difficulties crossing borders to conduct business, a situation he believes must be addressed if Africa is to achieve its trade ambitions.
“At least, we should be at 30% now. But getting to that 30%, it takes a lot in terms of the reforms that the member states would have to undertake. If regulations are stringent, it is difficult for our women and youth to cross our borders,” he said.
He further stressed the need for member states to strengthen product quality standards to ensure that goods traded across borders meet the required safety requirements and do not pose health risks to consumers.
Beyond regulatory changes, Dr. Tsotetsi called for investment in relevant infrastructure to support the efficient movement of goods between African countries.
He maintained that achieving the 30% target would require governments to move beyond commitments and undertake practical reforms that make cross-border trade easier and more accessible.
Dr. Tsotetsi said addressing these challenges would be critical to unlocking the benefits of the AfCFTA and strengthening economic integration across the continent.
CNR