Africa’s LDC Trade: Harnessing the Variable Geometry of the AfCFTA and Beyond

This chapter looks at the issue of African Least Developed Countries (LDCs) as it pertains to trade. It discusses elements relating to their trade performance and the special and differential treatment these countries have been receiving in the multilateral setting, and more recently in the context of the AfCFTA. It takes a look at elements of variable geometry (i.e. allowing these countries sufficient flexibilities to integrate at their own speed, without missing out on the benefits of increased trade under a “Single Undertaking“ of the AfCFTA). The chapter also discusses preferences under the World Trade Organization and its now extinct Doha Round that have targeted African LDCs and compares these with those of the AfCFTA. It further discusses what role these experiences could play in the realization of the AfCFTA that is responsive to the variable geometry of the African continent, and more importantly how to strategically position and capitalize from the AfCFTA through the agenda setting of international fora.