Addressing Africa’s cross-border trade challenges

Africa has long struggled with the imbalance in global trade treaties, facing challenges in cross-border trade and struggling to make the most of trade agreements. Pat Utomi, Chairman of the Pan-African Private Sector Trade and Investment Committee, believes that a more mutual trade agreement is crucial to address these issues. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa at the sidelines of the general meetings of the Afriks in America, Utomi highlighted the importance of incorporating private sector inputs into trade decisions made by African leaders. He emphasized the need for a think tank with a private sector orientation to coordinate inputs and provide evidence-based recommendations to political decision-makers. Utomi stressed that access to markets remains a key concern, calling for more support to add value in Africa's trade value chains. A major focus is on lowering cross-border challenges such as non-tariff barriers and enhancing financing opportunities to facilitate cross-border engagements. Building trust among African entrepreneurs is also essential for fostering trade relationships.