AfCFTA : a strategic UN–Japan partnership to digitize African trade

The digital transition is central to AfCFTA’s long-term vision, and this new partnership between ECA and Japan marks a decisive step. Signed in Addis Ababa, the agreement includes the implementation of interconnected digital platforms to simplify trade procedures, enhance transparency, and improve traceability across African borders.

We firmly believe that technology is a key enabler of regional integration in Africa

“We firmly believe that technology is a key enabler of regional integration in Africa. Japan’s support comes at a critical time to accelerate the actual implementation of the AfCFTA,” said Claver Gatete, Executive Secretary of the ECA.

The $10 million funding will help develop e-certification systems, shared customs data platforms, and e-commerce tools specifically designed to empower African SMEs.

AfCFTA: A Pan-African ambition

Launched in January 2021, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is one of the African Union’s flagship initiatives under Agenda 2063. With 54 out of 55 African countries as signatories, it is the largest trade bloc in the world by number of participating nations.

According to the African Development Bank, AfCFTA aims to create a single market of 1.4 billion people with a combined GDP of over $3.4 trillion. By 2035, the World Bank estimates that AfCFTA could increase intra-African exports by 29% and lift more than 30 million people out of extreme poverty.

However, implementation remains slow. Non-tariff barriers, weak infrastructure, fragmented regulations, and the lack of shared digital tools still hinder progress. This is precisely where the ECA–Japan partnership is expected to have a transformative impact.

Japan: A strategic but discreet partner

Japan has long been involved in Africa through technical cooperation and is now strengthening its presence in trade and innovation. This partnership is part of the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD), whose latest edition focused on digitalization and post-COVID economic resilience.

Japan is committed to supporting tangible projects that drive Africa’s structural transformation

“Japan is committed to supporting tangible projects that drive Africa’s structural transformation. This program with ECA demonstrates our intent to foster inclusive growth through technology,” said Tsukasa Uemura, Ambassador of Japan to the African Union.

A unique opportunity for African SMEs

Digitalizing trade offers a unique opportunity for African SMEs, which represent over 80% of businesses on the continent. Through digital tools—such as e-certificates of origin, B2B platforms, and customs automation—SMEs will be able to improve competitiveness, cut logistics costs, and expand into new markets.

Yet major challenges persist: digital divides, cybersecurity risks, lack of data infrastructure, and above all, the need for interoperability across national systems. It is also essential to ensure that digital solutions do not deepen inequality between large urban enterprises and small rural traders.

Laying the foundations for a Pan-African digital corridor

This UN–Japan partnership complements other initiatives, including the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) led by Afreximbank and the African Union’s upcoming Digital Single Market. All aim to build a connected, sovereign, and inclusive African digital trade corridor.

AfCFTA cannot succeed without a strong digital infrastructure. Through innovation and partnerships, we can build a modern, agile, and resilient African trade system

“AfCFTA cannot succeed without a strong digital infrastructure. Through innovation and partnerships, we can build a modern, agile, and resilient African trade system,” said Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the AfCFTA.