Régis SIMO

This research project aims to contribute to the understanding of the evolving “common” external trade policy of African Union (AU) Member States in the context of the Agreement establishing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). When signing this Agreement in 2018, the AU Executive Council also approved a “common position”, first to negotiate a new cooperation agreement with the European Union after the expiry of the Cotonou Agreement in 2020, and to guide their future economic deal(s) with third parties. This move was in line with prior continental treaties’ aspirations, which contemplate the adoption of a common trade policy regarding the outside world in order to promote the realization of the African Economic Community.

Starting as a Free Trade Area (with the purpose to lay the foundations for the establishment of a continental Customs Union at a later stage), the AfCFTA does not intend to create a “fortress Africa”. The conclusion of several trade agreements between AfCFTA State Parties and third states after the entry into force of the AfCFTA Agreement is sufficiently illustrative of a continental market creating opportunities for international trade and foreign investment. However, those side deals may also constitute a threat to AfCFTA’s objective to boost intra-Africa trade. Against this backdrop, this research project elaborates on the role of the AfCFTA Agreement’s legal provisions in the shaping of the AU Members’ common external trade policy while preserving the integrity of the continental internal market.