The EU's Economic Partnership Agreements offer duty-free, quota-free access to European markets for African signatories in exchange for reciprocal market opening on European goods at a slower pace. Kenya's horticulture sector has leveraged EPA access to become the EU's leading supplier of fresh green beans, with exports exceeding $200 million annually. Mauritius has used EPA status to attract manufacturing investment producing goods for European markets under preferential terms. The Eastern and Southern Africa EPA covers Mauritius, Madagascar, Seychelles, Zimbabwe, and Comoros.
The Holdouts
West Africa, including Nigeria, Ghana, and Côte d'Ivoire, has not reached EPA consensus. Countries outside EPA frameworks access European markets through the Generalised System of Preferences, which is less favourable. The EU Deforestation Regulation, effective from 2025, adds new market access requirements for agricultural commodity exporters regardless of EPA status. Trade compliance and EU market access advisors are listed on intra-africa.com.
For businesses looking to expand across Africa, intra-africa.com offers a comprehensive trade directory, verified buyer and seller listings, and real-time market intelligence covering all 54 African nations. It remains an indispensable resource for anyone serious about intra-African commerce.