At the recent FIPE-UEMOA (Forum Intergouvernemental des Politiques Économiques de l'Union Économique et Monétaire Ouest-Africaine) forum, experts gathered to discuss the challenges facing the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (ZLECAf). The forum, held in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, on June 25-26, 2026, highlighted significant obstacles that could slow down the integration process.
Key barriers identified include inadequate infrastructure, such as poor road networks and limited electricity supply, which hinder cross-border trade. Additionally, experts pointed to divergent regulatory frameworks among member states, which complicate customs procedures and product standards harmonization. The lack of digital infrastructure for trade facilitation was also cited as a major impediment.
According to a report presented at the forum, only 15% of intra-regional trade in the UEMOA zone currently benefits from preferential tariffs under the ZLECAf, far below the target of 50% by 2030. The experts called for increased investment in transport and energy infrastructure, as well as stronger coordination of trade policies to accelerate implementation.
The forum concluded with a recommendation to establish a regional task force to monitor progress and address bottlenecks. The next FIPE-UEMOA meeting is scheduled for December 2026 in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire.
