The inaugural Africa Export Competitiveness (AEC) Report is here! Launched in July 2024 during the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA)’s 50th Anniversary in Accra, Ghana, and developed in partnership with BADEA, ACBF, Shift Impact Africa, and competitiveness institutes in Africa and India, this report serves as a critical benchmark for assessing and improving Africa’s export capacity. The report analyzes export ecosystems across 30 African countries using the AEC Index, built on four pillars: Enabling Environment, Demand Sophistication, Business Dynamism, and Export Performance.
The findings highlight several challenges that hinder trade efficiency and competitiveness across the region. These include inadequate infrastructure, institutional inefficiencies, and significant skill gaps. The report proposes strategies such as infrastructure investment, institutional reform, skills development, and economic diversification to address barriers to trade and economic growth in Africa. By prioritizing these areas, Africa can create a more competitive and prosperous economic landscape. Read the AEC Report (competitiveness report 2023.pdf) for insights on Africa’s export potential.
