Exporting to Africa

Beyond Borders: Navigating Africa's Export Landscape

The African Continent is projected to be the second-fastest-growing region after Asia. According to a recent African Development Bank Group (AfDB) report, the continent will account for 11 of the world’s 20 fastest-growing economies in 2024.

Overall, real GDP growth for the continent is expected to average 3.8% in 2024 and 4.2% in 2025. This is higher than the projected global averages of 2.9% and 3.2%, respectively.

Regional growth rates for 2024 and 2025 include East Africa at 5.1% and 5.7%, North Africa at 3.9% and 4.1%, Central Africa at 3.5% and 4.1%, Southern Africa at 2.2% and 2.6%, and West Africa at 4.0% and 4.4%. While each region has its challenges, the overall economic outlook is one of continued growth.

Why Africa, Why Now

Africa is the world’s youngest continent, with 60% of the population under 25. Africa has the world’s largest reserves of cobalt, diamonds, platinum, and uranium, as well as 40% of the world’s gold reserves and 30% of its iron, copper, and aluminum reserves. It also has 65% of the world’s arable land and 10% of its renewable freshwater. Africa is the last and largest emerging market and offers the final big supply chain and consumer prospects, presenting opportunities similar to what Southeast Asia offered 20 years ago.

Purpose of the Webinar Series

The purpose of the “Beyond Borders: Navigating Africa’s Export Landscape” webinar series is to support U.S. exporters by encouraging and enabling them to seriously explore Africa as a new market. This series is designed to provide insights and strategies that will help U.S. businesses overcome challenges and seize opportunities in this dynamic region. Additionally, the webinar series offers an opportunity for our export community to learn more about the various resources available that can assist them in expanding their operations into Africa.

Where to Begin

U.S. exporters need to begin ‘Navigating Africa’s Export Landscape’ by learning about the main regions in Africa, understanding the key countries within the various regions, and then targeting which region or country would offer the best opportunity for a company’s product or service. The key to success is becoming educated about the challenges and opportunities, gaining an understanding of the available resources, and building a network of regional and country experts.

Getting Started

Join the National Association of District Export Councils as we launch the “Beyond Borders: Navigating Africa’s Export Landscape” 2025 webinar series.

Beyond Borders: Navigating Africa’s Export Landscape webinar series dates:

Session 1: January 16, 2025
Session 2: February 13, 2025
Session 3: March 13, 2025
Session 4: April 10, 2025

To register, please follow the links on the individual session dates above.

The first session will provide a comprehensive overview of the continent overall. The following sessions will offer a deep dive on a regional basis, focusing on the top 3 regions. Attendees will gain an understanding of the main trading countries within each region, key industries, infrastructure, financial considerations, risks, sector opportunities, resources, and key contacts.