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The African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) is a landmark trade agreement that was signed in 2018 by African Union member states. The agreement aims to create a single continental market for goods and services, improve the movement of capital and people, and promote economic integration across Africa. The AfCFTA is expected to be a game-changer for the continent, with the potential to increase intra-African trade by 52% by 2022.

Objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement

The AfCFTA has several objectives, including:

1. Creating a single market for goods and services

The first objective of the AfCFTA is to create a single market for goods and services. This means that member states will eliminate tariffs on goods traded within the continent, making it easier and cheaper for African businesses to trade with each other. The elimination of trade barriers will also make it easier for African businesses to compete with businesses from other parts of the world.

2. Promoting the movement of capital and people

The AfCFTA also aims to improve the movement of capital and people across the continent. This means that member states will eliminate restrictions on the movement of people and capital, making it easier for businesses to invest in other African countries and for talented Africans to work and study outside their home countries.

3. Boosting economic integration and development

The AfCFTA is expected to boost economic integration and development across Africa. By promoting intra-African trade, the AfCFTA will increase the continent`s economic growth and create more job opportunities for Africans. The agreement will also encourage African businesses to expand their operations to other countries, which will help to diversify their markets and increase their revenues.

4. Diversifying Africa`s export base

The AfCFTA aims to diversify Africa`s export base. Currently, Africa`s exports are dominated by natural resources such as oil, minerals, and agricultural products. The AfCFTA will encourage African countries to export a wider range of goods and services, including manufactured goods and services. This will help to reduce the continent`s dependence on commodity exports and make its economies more resilient to external shocks.

5. Enhancing competitiveness of African industries

The AfCFTA also aims to enhance the competitiveness of African industries. By eliminating tariffs and other trade barriers, the AfCFTA will make it easier for African businesses to access larger markets, which will help them to achieve economies of scale and reduce their costs of production. The agreement will also encourage African countries to invest in infrastructure and technology, which will help to boost the competitiveness of their industries.

Conclusion

The African Continental Free Trade Agreement is a historic agreement that has the potential to transform the continent`s economy. By creating a single continental market for goods and services, promoting the movement of capital and people, boosting economic integration and development, diversifying Africa`s export base, and enhancing the competitiveness of African industries, the AfCFTA will help to create a more prosperous and secure future for Africa and its people.