The African free trade agreement (AfCFTA) is one of the most significant trade deals ever signed on the continent, with the potential to boost economic growth, create jobs, and lift millions of people out of poverty.

The text of the agreement, which was signed by 54 of the 55 African Union (AU) member states in March 2018, is a comprehensive document outlining the framework for the establishment of a single market for goods and services across the continent.

The agreement, which came into force on January 1st, 2021, seeks to eliminate tariffs on 90% of goods traded between African countries, with the remaining 10% of goods classified as “sensitive” and subject to gradual tariff reductions.

In addition to the elimination of tariffs, the AfCFTA also aims to promote the free movement of people, goods, and services, as well as the establishment of a continental customs union and a single market for air transport.

The text of the agreement sets out the various stages of implementation, including the establishment of a permanent secretariat, the harmonization of trade policies and regulations, and the negotiation of specific protocols on areas such as intellectual property, investment, and competition.

The AfCFTA has the potential to be a game-changer for the continent, with estimates suggesting that the agreement could boost intra-African trade by as much as 52% by 2022, and double it by 2030.

However, there are also concerns that the agreement could lead to job losses in some sectors, as businesses may relocate to countries with lower labor costs. There are also concerns about the potential impact on small and medium-sized enterprises, which may struggle to compete with larger, more established firms.

Despite these concerns, the AfCFTA has been widely welcomed by the international community, with the World Trade Organization, the United Nations, and the European Union all expressing their support for the agreement.

The text of the agreement is available online and provides a detailed overview of the framework for the establishment of a single market for goods and services across the continent. As the AfCFTA moves towards full implementation, it will be fascinating to see how it impacts African economies and the wider global trade landscape.