JOHN MARÉ: Setting up smart corridors will help get trade moving in Africa
There is a need to strengthen multimodal transport infrastructure and improve co-operation
The need to improve African trade is of great importance to SA, with the gradual materialisation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) an encouraging factor. SA’s exports to AfCFTA countries already account for nearly a quarter of the country’s global exports, and this should in theory rise rapidly as the agreement kicks in.
It nevertheless remains a reality that there are many major inhibitors of African trade that remain stubbornly in place, including the turbulent geopolitical context, adverse regulatory frameworks, the fragmented African market, and energy, and water and finance challenges. The need to strengthen multimodal transport infrastructure, with its key role in the creation and functioning of production value chains, remains particularly relevant, as is the need for improved stakeholder co-operation. ..
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.