Abstract:

The African Union had formalized officially in 2012 its intent of establishing the African Continental Free Trade Agreement that is to say a gigantic project that would turn the continent on worldwide largest free exchange area. Broadly speaking, the valuable project deserves to draw attention of concerned stakeholders at domestic and international scales. Indeed, with regard to intended socioeconomic impacts, the continental free trade area should bring about pulling up gross domestic products, reinforce exports between countries within the continent, enhance value addition thereby upholding youth employment and improving population welfare. However regarding the third party even though the new continental agreement does not nullify pre-existing trade accords, “made in Africa” concept grounded on rules of origin and targeting more value added throughout the continent clearly narrows wiggle room. Furthermore, undermining effects of tariff as well as non-tariff barriers should be noticed with great concern.

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