The African Continental Free Trade Area ( AfCFTA ) , which comes into effect on 1 May , is intended to enhance the continent 's future growth prospects . AfCFTA removes duties and other barriers within the region , while aiding the movement of goods , funds and talent across the continent , which has a combined population of more than one billion potential customers . Africa is partnering with various countries for development . This includes cooperation with China on infrastructure and industrial capacity , as part of the Belt and Road Initiative .
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which comes into effect on 30 May, is expected to bolster the continent's future growth prospects. AfCFTA removes duties and other barriers within the region, while aiding the movement of goods, funds and talent across the continent, which has a combined market of more than one billion potential customers. Africa is partnering with various countries for development. This includes cooperation with China on infrastructure and industrial capacity, as part of the Belt and Road Initiative.