Country market guide: African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)
The African Continental Free Trade Area connects 54 African Union member states into a single continental market of 1.3 billion people. It is the world's largest free trade area by number of participating countries.
What AfCFTA Does
The agreement aims to eliminate tariffs on 90% of goods traded between member states, reduce non-tariff barriers, and harmonize customs procedures across the continent.
Current Status
Trading under AfCFTA began in January 2021. Tariff liberalization is being phased in over 5–10 years depending on the product category and whether the country is classified as a Least Developed Country.
How to Benefit
- Check eligibility — Your product must meet AfCFTA rules of origin (typically 40% local value addition or a change in tariff heading).
- Obtain an AfCFTA Certificate of Origin — Issued by your country's designated authority.
- Use the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) — Enables cross-border payments in local currencies, reducing dependence on USD.
Key Sectors
Agro-processing, textiles, automotive, pharmaceuticals, and building materials are priority sectors identified for intra-African trade growth.
Faktorist is expanding its coverage of African markets. Suppliers and buyers in AfCFTA member states can already list products and create tenders targeting the continental market.
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