Today, we delve into the fascinating world of African economic policy with an in-depth look at the Democratic Republic of Congo’s participation in the 3rd ministerial retreat of the Council of the African Continental Economic Free Trade Area (ZLECAF). The major event was held in Zanzibar, an emblematic place located in Tanzania, and was marked by the notable presence of the Minister of Foreign Trade of the DRC, Julien Paluku.
In a context where continental integration and the promotion of intra-African trade are more crucial than ever, this ministerial meeting is of capital importance. Indeed, the stakes are high: strengthening the competitiveness of African products on world markets, promoting the development of value chains for the industrialization of countries on the continent, and laying the foundations for a possible single market for goods and services. and an African customs union.
Julien Paluku, in his capacity as rapporteur of the ZLECAF Council of Foreign Trade Ministers, is at the heart of the debates and decisions that will shape the economic future of Africa in the coming years. The ambition is clear: develop concrete strategies to stimulate intra-African trade which currently remains at a modest level of 6%, and harmonize the rules of origin of products within the free trade area.
In addition, African ministers are working to implement policies aimed at promoting the development of value chains and Special Economic Zones within the framework of the AfCFTA. These initiatives, coupled with the definition of a ten-year Strategic Plan, will mark a significant step forward towards stronger and more dynamic economic integration on the continent.
In conclusion, the participation of the DRC in this ZLECAF ministerial meeting demonstrates the country’s commitment to continental integration and the promotion of intra-African trade. Julien Paluku and his counterpart Ministers of Foreign Trade are today paving the way towards a more prosperous and more united economic future for Africa.
This meeting in Zanzibar will undoubtedly have major repercussions on the African economy in the years to come, and demonstrate the crucial importance of strengthened collaboration between the countries of the continent to meet the economic challenges of tomorrow.