1st Edition
The African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement The Development of a Rules-Based Trading Order
In 2018, the members of the African Union adopted the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement (AfCFTA). This book examines the AfCFTA, dissecting its key provisions. It stresses the importance of the AfCFTA in the context of increasing episodes of trade protection in Africa, and it theorizes on the role of the treaty organs. The book also examines the importance of citizen participation for the success of the AfCFTA, as well as exploring the role sub-state actors can play. Ultimately, the study adds to the understanding of the array of problems that are associated with regional trade in Africa and the role law plays in resolving these problems. It will be of importance to academics and students of international law, especially those with an interest in African trade law, as well as legal professionals and policymakers.
List of Cases viii
List of Treaties x
Acknowledgement xiii
Acronyms xiv
The African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement: The Development of a Rules-Based Trading Order 1
1 The Importance of a Rules-Based and Open International Trading Order 10
2 The Civic Republican Deficit in Africa and the Failure of Postcolonial Trade Arrangements 29
3 Principles of the AfCFTA 56
4 The AfCFTA and Protectionism in Africa 95
5 The AfCFTA Governance Structures 121
6 Sub-National Governments and the AfCFTA 147
7 The AfCFTA Dispute Settlement System 160
8 Conclusion 177
Bibliography 203
Index 232
Biography
Kofi Oteng Kufuor is Professor of Law, University of East London, UK.
