Over half of African countries are expected to implement the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) this year. Thirty-one of the 47 ratifying countries will join the guided trade initiative, up from seven in 2023. The AfCFTA aims to increase trade within the region by 80% to USD 532 bln by 2035, as forecasted by the World Bank. The initiative has already facilitated trade between African nations, with reduced duties and improved competitiveness.