IISD Events 62d ago

This session explored how Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), the backbone of African economies, can drive inclusive gains under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Representing over 90% of businesses and a majority of the workforce, SMEs are essential for intra-African trade, industrialization, and poverty reduction. Yet, they face persistent barriers including limited access to finance, non-tariff barriers, inadequate infrastructure, and challenges meeting quality and safety standards for regional markets. Held on the sidelines of MC14 in Yaoundé, the session highlighted progress in SME integration, including the AfCFTA’s preferential trading regime, Rules of Origin, the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System, and the Protocol on Women and Youth in Trade. Participants examined how targeted capacity-building, digital upskilling, and international partnerships can empower SMEs to compete effectively across African value chains. Speakers discussed actionable strategies to enhance SME participation, unlock AfCFTA’s inclusive potential, and ensure that the continent’s primary economic drivers are equipped for sustainable trade-led growth. Speakers - Emmanuel Agbor - British High Commission - Bama Cham - Cameroon National Shippers Council & Common Wealth Enterprise and Investment Council - Henri Kouam Tamto - Cameroon Economic Policy Institute (CEPI) - Jacqueline Tientcheu - GiG Afatex International