How to Modernize Customs Procedures to Successfully Implement the African Continental Free Trade Area

IMF How To Notes, April 11, 2025

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Canonical URL: How to Modernize Customs Procedures to Successfully Implement the African Continental Free Trade Area

Authors: Gilles Montagnat-Rentier, Brian Brimble, Georges Dudouyt, José M García-Sanjinés
Published: April 11, 2025
Series: IMF How To Notes
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5089/9798229007009.061

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) was initiated by the African Union in 2012 and aims to create the world's largest free trade area by reducing tariffs and facilitating trade among 54 African countries.
AfCFTA officially entered into force on May 30, 2019.
Trading under the AfCFTA began on January 1, 2021.
The agreement covers trade in both goods and services and includes provisions to facilitate trade and investment and to address regulatory measures.

Potential to diversify exports, accelerate growth, and attract foreign investment.
Potentially boosting regional incomes by 9 percent by 2035.
Potentially helping 50 million people exit extreme poverty.

Customs administration is crucial for successful AfCFTA implementation.
Key requirements for customs administrations:
- Modernization of procedures and systems.
- Strong government support.
- Cooperation and engagement with the business community.
Significant changes in customs practice remain necessary for full implementation of AfCFTA.

The note discusses recommendations for customs administration reforms to optimize AfCFTA implementation.
Suggested implementation tempo:
- A regional one-year deadline for most relevant measures.

Customs administration core functions
Exports; Imports; International trade; Trade in goods
Revenue administration; Trade facilitation
AfCFTA Agreement; AfCFTA Customs portal; Protocol on Trade in Goods; Protocol on Trade in Services
Competition Policy; Digital Trade; Intellectual Property Rights; origin unit
State party; tariff elimination; Women and Youth in Trade