BEIRA, Mozambique – Mozambique marked a major milestone Saturday as it officially launched its first shipment of goods under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement.
The consignment heading to Kenya reflects Mozambique’s expanding role in the continental free trade framework, according to AfCFTA social media posts.
The event was led by Prime Minister Maria Benvinda Levi, with AfCFTA Secretary-General Wamkele Mene serving as guest of honor.
In his remarks, Mene emphasized the significance of the occasion, saying it would help boost intra-African trade and advance regional economic integration.
The AfCFTA, launched in 2021, is the world’s largest free trade area by number of participating countries, aiming to connect 1.4 billion people across 55 African Union member states with a combined gross domestic product of more than $3.4 trillion.
Its goals include eliminating tariffs on 90% of goods, facilitating the movement of capital and people, and laying the foundation for a continental customs union.
Officials at the launch expressed optimism that Mozambique’s involvement would enhance its economic relations with neighboring countries and create new opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs.
The shipment marks a significant step forward in realizing AfCFTA’s potential to reshape African economies, reduce poverty, and foster industrialization through increased trade across borders.
