January 1 saw the launch of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), a new free trade deal that includes every African country except Eritrea. African frameworkThe beginning of a new African free trade area is particularly relevant for Europe. With African countries working together, the free trade zone could become an essential partner for the European Union. Beijing should offer more transparency on subsidies, limit state-owned companies’ privileges and curb forced transfers of technology from Europe. With tensions between Washington and Beijing remaining high, President Xi sees an advantage in closer ties with Europe.

Source: The North Africa Journal January 06, 2021 06:00 UTC