Global and Regional Trade Agreements and the Implementation of the AfCFTA

Leseko Makhetha ()
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Leseko Makhetha: National University of Lesotho, Department of Economics

Chapter Chapter 3 in From Policy to Practice: Challenges and Ways Forward on the Implementation of the AfCFTA, 2026, pp 35-54 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) represents a transformative initiative aimed at creating a single continental market for goods and services, fostering economic integration, and boosting intra-African trade. This paper examines the AfCFTA within the broader context of global and regional trade governance. It explores the historical evolution and impact of multilateral frameworks like the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and the proliferation of Regional Trade Agreements (RTAs). The analysis highlights the significant synergies between these agreements and the AfCFTA, particularly in areas of trade facilitation, standards harmonisation, and capacity building. However, it also identifies critical challenges arising from conflicts and overlaps with existing Regional Economic Communities (RECs), such as divergent rules of origin, tariff schedules, and dispute resolution mechanisms. The paper concludes by proposing strategic policy recommendations for the effective implementation of the AfCFTA. These strategies focus on institutional alignment, infrastructure development, capacity building, and enhanced private sector engagement to overcome structural barriers and realise the agreement's potential as a cornerstone for Africa's economic renaissance.

Keywords: AfCFTA; Regional integration; WTO; RTAs; Trade liberalization; Rules of origin; Non-tariff barriers; Intra-African trade; RECs (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:spr:sprchp:978-3-032-14051-7_3

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DOI: 10.1007/978-3-032-14051-7_3

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