Africa–Brazil Regional Trade Agreements: Looking Forward with Proactive Strategies

Trade between Africa and Brazil has seen tremendous growth over the years, amidst continued challenges. This increase in trade has been partly attributed to the fostering of political relations between the two regions. However, the concentration and structure of trade between the regions need to improve. Imports from Brazil have been mainly in resource-intensive manufactured goods and technological products whilst the bulk of exports into Brazil are primary resources and products. Trading pattern of this nature tends to put African nations at a disadvantage as primary goods are susceptible to shocks. Political and cultural partnerships have contributed to deepening the ties between Brazil and Africa, thereby increasing the exchange and transfer of knowledge. This relationship could be further strengthened if the two regions can focus on enhancing infrastructure development and trade facilitation. Future trade agreements should therefore endeavour to develop policies that will create enabling environment for development. Examples of such policies include fostering direct air and sea transport between major cities in Brazil and Africa, appropriate use of information and communication technologies, use of single window and harmonization of processes and procedures.