Journal of International Development· 2026Q2
Time and Free Trade Agreements: Implications for the AfCFTA
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- Q2SCImago
- 2026year
Short summary
Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) boost intra-African trade by an average of 6%, but these gains are delayed by at least 3 years on average, highlighting the need for accelerated AfCFTA implementation.
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Key points
- FTAs increase intra-African trade flows by an average of 6%.
- The positive impacts of FTAs on intra-African trade are delayed by at least 3 years on average.
- Larger long-run gains from FTAs are observed for African trade.
- Timely implementation of tariff policies and investment plans is crucial for reducing trade barriers.
AI-generated from the title and abstract; the full text is not read.
Abstract
ABSTRACT This study examines how free trade agreements (FTAs) can boost economic growth by increasing trade, with clear implications for the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). Our main finding is that in general, the effects of FTAs are delayed by at least 3 years on average for intra‐African trade. The results make the case for timely implementation of the agreement's tariff policies, as well as the investment plans to reduce barriers to trade and logistics. We analyse the timing and magnitude of FTA effects, organizing trade flows by their level of connection to Africa. We find that, for intra‐African trade, the positive impacts of FTAs are delayed for 3 years on average. A standard FTA increases trade flows by about 6%, with larger long‐run gains observed for African trade. These results highlight the importance of accelerating the implementation of AfCFTA commitments, including tariff reductions and complementary investments aimed at lowering trade and logistics barriers to avoid delaying the agreement's expected benefits.
The authors' abstract, as published at the source. Journal of International Development, 2026 · DOI ↗
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General Economics, Econometrics and FinanceEconomics, Econometrics and Finance