In a significant move towards bolstering sustainable growth and development in Africa, the Arab Africa Trade Bridges Program (AATB) has inked two pivotal agreements during the Intra Africa Trade Fair 2023 in Cairo, Egypt. The first agreement, a Grant Agreement between Hani Salem Sonbol, CEO of ITFC and Secretary General of AATB, and Dr. Hermogene Nsengimana, General Secretary of ARSO, is geared towards harmonizing African standards for textiles and leather products.
This move aims to catalyze transformative change in the African Fashion Industry, aligning with the recent success in harmonizing pharmaceutical and medical device standards under the AATB Program, echoing the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement.
Additionally, a Partnership Agreement was sealed between ITFC and the International Trade Centre (ITC) under AATB's umbrella, marking the commencement of Phase Two for the "How to Export with the AfCFTA” Program. This collaborative initiative with Afreximbank focuses on training programs for countries like Benin, Cameroon, Senegal, and Togo. The program intends to raise awareness about the technical aspects and opportunities arising from the AfCFTA agreement, empowering enterprises to strategically leverage the benefits presented.
With a keen eye on promoting trade and investment development, these agreements underscore the pivotal role of large and small businesses in Africa's economic growth and structural transformation, aligning with the AATB program's commitment to drive positive economic impact across the continent.