14th January 2026
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat concluded the 2nd AfCFTA Business Forum in Marrakech, Morocco, underscoring the urgency of accelerating the implementation of the trade agreement amid rising global tariffs and shifting international trade dynamics. At the forum, Secretary-General Wamkele Mene emphasized the need to remove intra-African trade barriers, modernize customs systems, liberalize the movement of people and services, and fully leverage Africa’s $712 billion digital economy.
Secretary-General Mene highlighted Morocco’s strategic role in the next phase of AfCFTA implementation, citing the country’s advanced manufacturing capabilities, leadership in renewable energy, and active participation in the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS). He stressed that through deeper economic integration, targeted investments, and strengthened public-private partnerships, Africa can harness its demographic dividend and foster sustainable, continent-wide growth.
Potential Benefits to African Trade: The 2nd AfCFTA Business Forum highlighted the urgent need to accelerate implementation by removing trade barriers, harmonizing regulations, and modernizing customs and digital payment systems like PAPSS to reduce costs and streamline intra-African trade. Africa’s $712 billion digital economy offers significant opportunities for tech-driven services, e-commerce, and fintech, while Morocco’s manufacturing and renewable energy strengths provide a model for industrial development under AfCFTA. Strengthening public-private partnerships and targeted investments can mobilize resources, expand continental value chains, and enable Africa to harness its demographic dividend for sustainable economic growth.