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By Gabs Mia
Kinshasa, DRC: The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) launched its much-anticipated African Trade Report 2025, titled “African Trade in a Changing Global Financial Architecture”, during the Afreximbank Annual Meetings (AAM2025) in Abuja. Against a backdrop of rising geopolitical tensions, financial uncertainty, and new trade barriers, the report outlines how Africa can transform these challenges into opportunities to reshape its trade landscape and strengthen its global standing.
Professor Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of Afreximbank, described the report as a wake-up call for the continent.
“This year’s report provides a compelling roadmap for Africa to reposition itself in a volatile global economy. From strengthening trade finance systems to accelerating the AfCFTA, the message is clear: Africa must turn global fragmentation into an opportunity for industrialisation, digital progress, and greater control over its financial systems” he said.
The stakes couldn’t be higher. While global trade growth slows, Africa is pushing forward. The report reveals a remarkable recovery in Africa’s total merchandise trade, which surged by 13.9% in 2024 to reach US$1.5 trillion, following a contraction of 5.4% the previous year. Intra-African trade also saw a significant boost, growing by 12.4% to US$220.3 billion, showcasing the early fruits of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Yet, Africa’s global trade share remains a meagre 3.3%, exposing a stark reality: the continent must shift from commodity dependence to industrialisation and deeper integration into global value chains. Dr. Yemi Kale, Afreximbank’s Group Chief Economist, highlighted the urgency
“Despite global headwinds, Africa’s trade rebounded strongly in 2024. This demonstrates the tangible benefits of AfCFTA implementation. However, persistent challenges like sovereign debt risks, inflation, and a US$100 billion trade finance gap underscore the need for sustained reforms” he said.
The report also highlights the growing role of institutions like the Alliance of African Multilateral Financial Institutions (AAMFI) in rebuilding a financial ecosystem tailored for Africa. Afreximbank alone disbursed over US$17.5 billion in trade finance in 2024 and aims to scale this to US$40 billion by 2026, reaffirming its commitment to the continent’s growth.
Turning Challenges into Opportunities
Africa’s economy grew by 3.2% in 2024, outperforming the global average, despite uneven growth across the region. Strong commodity prices and improved public finances have played a crucial role. But as the global economy faces continued uncertainty, Africa has the tools to adapt and thrive.
The African Trade Report 2025 is more than a document; it’s a call to action. With a bold vision for a stronger, fairer, and more resilient economy, Afreximbank is charting a course for Africa to rise above global volatility and lead from within.
As Professor Oramah aptly stated, “Africa’s future will be shaped not by the storms it faces, but by how it harnesses them to sail forward.”
