These blockages reflect structural divergences. In the textile sector, West African cotton-producing countries defend their positions against nations with textile transformation and export industries (Egypt, Ethiopia, Morocco). In the automotive sector, the divide is between countries with emerging industries (Morocco, South Africa, Rwanda) and those fearing direct competition in still fragile markets.
Nevertheless, according to the progress report presented last June by Mahamadou Issoufou, former President of Niger and designated champion of AfCFTA, progress has been made. To date, 48 out of 54 countries have ratified the agreement, 49 lists of tariff concessions have been submitted with 48 validated, and guided trade has expanded to 39 countries, leading to the issuance of 2,850 certificates of origin. In terms of services, 24 lists of specific commitments have been adopted in five priority sectors: finance, transport, communication, tourism, and business services.
Challenges remain, however. Only 19 countries have incorporated AfCFTA into their national legislation. Five countries (Libya, Sudan, Eritrea, Somalia, Djibouti) are still outside the process. The Secretariat suffers from a chronic lack of resources: the $2.9 million budget allocated for 2021 has never been released. Moreover, states’ dependency on customs duties, which still account for between 20 and 40% of their tax revenues, hinders liberalization.
In addition, there are non-tariff barriers – opaque licenses, conflicting standards, administrative burdens – and colossal infrastructure needs. According to the African Development Bank (AfDB), the continent needs to mobilize $130 billion annually to bridge its transport, energy, and connectivity deficit. Without massive investments and stability in sensitive areas like the Sahel, DRC, or the Horn of Africa, AfCFTA will not be able to fulfill its promises.
Source: financialafrik.com
