From Senegal a study on products with the highest potential for AfCFTA trade

A study just published by the Ministry of Economy of Senegal tries to identify the products having the highest potential for being exported to other African countries within the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), based on the Senegal's comparative advantages in the manufacture of such goods and the countries where they are in higher demand in Africa. The study also analyses the main destinations of Senegalese products, and the regulatory and promotional policies that can be implemented by the government to increase their penetration into other African markets.

In total, 10 product groups are identified as strategic for the country to increase inter-African trade of Senegalese products.

These are: "Fish and crustaceans, molluscs and other aquatic invertebrates", "Edible fruit; peel of citrus fruit or melons", "Preparations of meat, fish or crustaceans, molluscs or other invertebrates ... ", "Preparations based on cereals, flour, starch or milk; pastries", "Fertilizers", "Essential oils and resinoids; perfumery or toilet preparations and preparations ... ", "Synthetic or artificial filaments; strip and the like of synthetic textile materials ...", "Wadding, felt and nonwovens; special yarns; twine, cordage, ropes and cables; articles of rope manufacture", "Ceramic products" and "Cast iron and steel".

The study is an important initiative that other African countries should replicate, because countries that lack the capital they need to grow (and most of African countries are in this situation) should focus on generating exports in areas where they have competitive advantages. Not only by looking at markets outside Africa, but also inside the continent.

We hope to see more studies of this kind by other African countries, possibly with a more detailed section on how promotional policies can expand their sales in Africa and how the private sector can be supported in this venture.