FUNCTIONS

The Institutional framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area serves several key
functions in accordance with the agreement establishing the African Continental Free Trade
Area.

1. Policy Coordination1;
It ensures a uniform approach to trade laws, rules, and standards by establishing a single
market for commodities, etc. among member nations. This promotes coordination
2. Dispute Resolution2;
The framework provides procedures for settling conflicts amongst member states in ord
er to encourage steady and equitable trade
3. Trade facilitation3;
Trade facilitation aims to lower obstacles and promote seamless cross-border movemen
t of goods and services by streamlining and harmonizing trade procedures.
4. Capacity Building4;
The AfCFTA framework seeks to improve member nations' capacities, especially in
relation to trade-related skills, infrastructure development, and customs procedures.
Institutions increase the ability of member governments to divide commerce.
5. Market Access5;
By giving member states a platform to enter a bigger market, the agreement promotes
economic development and growth by expanding trade opportunities.
6. Institutional Support6; It establishes institutions to support the implementation of the
AfCFTA including the Secretariat, which plays a crucial role in coordinating activities and
supporting member states.
7. Policy Research and Development7; The framework encourages research and
development activities to inform policies that promote sustainable and inclusive
economic growth across the continent.
8. Regulatory Convergence8; The AfCFTA aims to align regulatory frameworks across
member states to minimize non-tariff barriers and create a more conducive
environment for trade.

1
Part I, Art 3(a)
2
Articles 4(f) and 20(1)(2)(3)
3
Part III, Art 15
4
Part VI, Art 27
5
Part IV, Art 19
6
Part III, Art 13
7
Part III, Art 3(i)
8
Part IV, Art 8
 9. Promotion of Small and Medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)9; The institutional framework
recognizes the importance of SMEs in economic development and includes measures to
support their integration into the regional market, this increases market access.

9
Part IV, Art 19