Six European countries formed the European Economic Commission in 1957. In 1957, six European nations joined forces to form the European Economic Commission. The Treaty of Rome was signed, and a regional European economic bloc was created. The European Union (EU), established in 1965, is still the most significant political and economic bloc in Europe.
It is a regional bloc that includes 27 member countries who work together in many areas, including commerce, trade, citizenship, and free movement of people and goods. The EU’s influence is felt worldwide and has influenced many political and economic decisions.
African heads of state met in 2021 to agree to accelerate and increase intra-continental trade and create a free trade zone. The agreement to establish the African Continental Free Trade Area was signed in 2018. The deal was ratified by 36 of 54 African countries as of 2021.
This agreement will transform African markets for the benefit of Africans. Its key goals include creating a single demand for African goods and liberalization of African markets.
This means that African countries will open their borders to intra-African trade of goods and services.
One of the many benefits of AfCFTA is the ease with which goods and services can be imported and exported.
It will be easier and more affordable to import and export goods and services to other African countries due to the gradual harmonization of trade practices. This will allow for expansion to other countries.
The market will experience greater competition if it opens its borders for trade.
Market share
This will benefit consumers as the suppliers will increase quality and lower prices to gain market share. The integration brings about a liberalization that has positive effects on consumer welfare.
The main benefit of the bloc for African states is that it will give the continent a stronger voice in international political and trade negotiations.
The AfCFTA could provide a platform for African nations to speak together on global issues. Given its size and population, the AfCFTA will be the most prominent regional bloc worldwide. This is a huge advantage.
African countries can also negotiate continental trade issues that impact African states.
AfCFTA can address counterfeits and trade of sub-standard and illicit goods.
Through the AfCFTA, African countries can harmonize trade practices to minimize dumping. The AfCFTA allows the continent to tackle dumping through solid laws.
Borders between national units
Protocols adopted by the AfCFTA have already addressed some issues. This means that there is an element of implementation underway. Protocol on Trade in Services is one of these. Protocol Article 10 provides for mutual recognition agreements.
The national professional bodies issue licenses to experts operating in a country. This license is only valid for the country’s borders. They would need to seek licensure to offer services in another nation. This is often a strict requirement for foreigners.
A Kenyan lawyer cannot practice in Ugandan courts without a license.
Article 10 of the Protocol allows for trade in services, allowing countries to recognize licenses and other approvals mutually. However, this will be done gradually.
It is possible to export professional services to other countries if MRAs are signed and sector regulations passed in member states.
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