African Trade Chamber’s Post

Tridge has recently partnered with key African agricultural and food organizations. As the Head of Africa, I'm proud to lead these collaborations aimed at fostering innovation and sustainable growth across the continent. Our focus at Tridge is to expand the 'Data-based Marketplace' globally, and our recent agreements with African Agricultural Chambers of Commerce and Industry are integral to achieving this goal. We've joined forces with respected partners such as the U.S. Africa Trade Commission (USAFriTC), Chambre Nationale d'Agriculture de Côte d'Ivoire, the Chamber of Aquaculture Ghana, the Chamber of Women in Agribusiness (CHAWA) GHANA, the Pan African Chamber of Commerce (PACCI), and the Federation of West African Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FEWACCI), with more partnerships in the pipeline. Through our local presence in Tanzania, Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, and Egypt, we're dedicated to enhancing agriculture and driving economic prosperity at the grassroots level. These collaborations not only streamline trade but also pave the way for the formalization of our solutions internationally. We're actively seeking support from multilateral development banks like The World Bank and the African Development Bank Group to advance these efforts. Tridge's mission is to empower African agricultural organizations, boost local economies, and elevate the region's position in the global agrifood supply chain. By leveraging local expertise and networks, we facilitate cross-border trade, exemplified by initiatives such as sourcing cashews from Tanzania and exporting to markets like India and Vietnam. As Africa emerges as a key player in the global agrifood industry, Tridge remains committed to driving sustainable development and empowering local communities through innovative solutions. #Tridge #Agriculture #Africa #Partnerships #DataDriven #Sustainability #GlobalTrade

The 3rd African Agribusiness Leaders Dialogue (AALD3), held online and in person in Accra, has highlighted the barrier-breaking role of young African ‘agripreneurs’ in the agrifood sector. Hosted by the FAO Regional Office for Africa, AALD3 gathered perspectives from the private sector ahead of FAO’s 33rd Session of the Regional Conference for Africa (ARC33) to be held 18-20 April in Rabat, Morocco. ARC33 will bring together Ministers of Agriculture and other relevant portfolios from across Africa to drive agenda-setting in agrifood systems transformation in Africa, and AALD3 will help to bring the private sector perspective to those discussions. Emmanuel Tra Bi, Director General for Industry of the Ministry of Trade and Industry of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire gave the opening remarks, highlighting the role strategic partnerships with the private sector can play in agrifood systems transformation: “There is no longer any doubt that agrifood industry is a real source of wealth and sustainable employment for African economies. It is therefore up to African countries to work together in a spirit of solidarity and peace to consolidate the gains made in this sector,” he said. Read more: https://lnkd.in/gRqD5RGi #agrifood #Africa #agriculture #businessnews #instinctbusinessmag

Yesterday, Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM), in collaboration with the European Union (EU), launched the EPA-Kenya Sensitization Forum in Mwea, Kirinyaga County. This second public awareness forum is part of an initiative aimed at educating Kenyan enterprises about the newly signed Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which offers duty-free and quota-free access to the vast EU market. The agreement creates unprecedented trade and investment opportunities for Kenya, helping businesses better understand how to capitalize on these benefits. The Kenya-EU EPA facilitates Kenyan exports to the EU, promotes sustainable trade practices, and enhances Kenya’s global economic integration. The forum presented key presentations on trade policies, investment opportunities, and the role of sustainability in the EPA, in particular, how compliance with ESG standards can enhance competitiveness in EU markets. The forum was organized by stakeholders from the EU Delegation, State Department for Trade, state ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs), along with private sector Business Membership Organizations (BMOs) such as Danish Industry, the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA), Fresh Produce Exporters Association of Kenya (FPEAK), Kenya Flower Council (KFC), Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS), Fresh Produce Consortium (FPC), Avocado Society of Kenya (ASOK), and the Agriculture Sector Network (ASNET), among others. Representatives from Kirinyaga and Embu County Governments and various industry leaders also participated in discussing the impact of the EPA on Kenyan businesses and strategies to maximize its benefits. More sensitization forums are planned across other counties, including Machakos, Isiolo, Mombasa, and Nairobi, to be held in the coming months of 2024. #EUKenyaEPA

Fruit SA depends on government support for market access, export growth, and transformation. CEO Fhumulani Ratshitanga urges government leaders to intervene decisively to propel the industry forward. Fhumulani Mashau Ratshitanga https://lnkd.in/dHNesVqB

Exciting Developments in Uganda's Vanilla Industry Uganda's vanilla sector is making waves globally, showcasing resilience, collaboration, and sustainable growth. Despite challenges, the country's commitment to quality and innovation propels its vanilla industry to new heights. Government Support & Strategic Partnerships: The Ugandan government's backing and strategic collaborations, such as with global buyer Firmenich, bolster the industry's growth and sustainability. Global Challenges, Local Solutions: Ugandan vanilla farmers face market volatility and quality demands. However, proactive measures, like setting harvest dates, ensure high standards and competitiveness. Promising Progress: Uganda emerges as the world's second-largest producer of quality vanilla, with exports soaring. Yet, challenges like theft and market surplus persist, urging collaborative action. The Path Forward: Sustainability and Empowerment are key. Balancing economic viability with social responsibility paves the way for a robust and ethical vanilla industry. Join the Conversation: How can we further empower Ugandan vanilla farmers and enhance sustainability in the global vanilla trade? Share your thoughts! Let's work together towards a sustainable and thriving vanilla sector in Uganda and beyond! 🌍🌿 #uganda #vanillaindustry #sustainability #globaltrade #empowerment #agriculture #collaboration #ethicalsourcing #linkedindiscussion

The Inter Religious Council of Uganda has called for increased sensitisation among coffee farmers regarding the ongoing #registration exercise aimed at ensuring compliance with the European Union Deforestation Regulation (#EUDR) export guidelines. In response, the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA), Uganda Coffee Federation, the EUDR #Implementation Unit, and #aBi - supported by the Embassy of Denmark in Uganda and the European Union—have been actively engaging stakeholders in Uganda’s #coffee sub-sector to enhance understanding of these new regulations. The EUDR aims to #combat #global #deforestation by ensuring that products entering the EU market, including coffee, are not linked to deforested areas. This will impact Uganda’s coffee farmers and exporters as they strive to meet the requirements, emphasising #transparency, #traceability, and #sustainability in production processes. With the EU being one of the #largest #markets for Ugandan coffee, the success of these initiatives is vital to maintaining market access, protecting Uganda’s #forests, and promoting sustainable farming practices. At aBi, we remain committed to supporting Uganda's coffee farmers and exporters through this transition, ensuring that our sector remains competitive while adhering to global sustainability #standards. 

By fostering the free movement of goods and services, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is poised to unlock Africa's agricultural potential and empower the continent to achieve greater food security and economic growth. Here are some of the key benefits: ☘ Reduced reliance on imports Currently, Africa imports a large amount of agricultural products (around $50 billion worth per year). The AfCFTA will remove tariffs on trade between African countries, allowing them to trade more with each other and reduce their dependence on foreign imports. ☘ Increased intra-African trade With import tariffs eliminated, intra-African agricultural trade is projected to increase by 574% by 2030. This will allow African countries to take advantage of regional differences in agricultural products and specializations. ☘ Growth of agro-processing The AfCFTA is expected to lead to new investment in agro-processing across Africa. This will add value to African agricultural products and create new jobs. ☘ Boost for smallholder farmers Smallholder farmers make up 80% of Africa's food production. The AfCFTA will create new opportunities for them to participate in wider supply chains and sell their products to a larger market. ☘ Economic growth and job creation The growth of agriculture and agro-processing is expected to lead to significant economic growth and job creation across Africa. ☘ Improved food security By reducing reliance on imports and boosting domestic production, the AfCFTA is expected to improve food security in Africa. https://lnkd.in/gTT_QpyP #agriculture #foodsecurity #africa #growth #afcfta #trade #commerce #crossbordertrade

Why should members of government attend the African Agri Investment Indaba? ◼️Policy Development and Advocacy Engage with industry leaders and stakeholders to develop informed policies that support growth and sustainability in the agrifood sector. ◼️Investment Promotion Showcase your country's investment potential, attract foreign direct investment, and promote public-private partnerships to drive economic growth and development. ◼️Networking and Collaboration Network with global investors, financiers, and industry experts to foster collaborative projects and initiatives that benefit your country's agribusiness sector. ◼️Knowledge and Capacity Building Gain insights into the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in agriculture and food processing to improve productivity and efficiency. ◼️Economic Development Support and encourage the development of your domestic agribusiness sector, leading to job creation, increased exports, and overall economic growth. ◼️Food Security and Sustainability Participate in discussions focused on food security and sustainability to develop strategies ensuring a stable and sustainable food supply. ◼️Showcasing Success Stories: Highlight successful projects and initiatives within your country, attracting further investment and demonstrating your commitment to the agrifood sector. Join us at the African Agri Investment Indaba and be part of the largest investment gathering in food and agriculture on the African continent. #AAII24 #Government #Agriculture #AfricaGrowth For more information about the event: 🌍 www.agri-indaba.com ✉ eventhost@agricouncil.org 🔗 to register https://lnkd.in/gYqFd35i Sandra C Munangwa Ben Leyka Reinhard Lotz Rashaad Essop Loudon Cito MANUEL SINGANO Yolisa Nyoka Nyoka

Today we presented to the Joint Standing Committee on Trade and Investment Growth’s crucial public hearing for its Inquiry into the utilisation of benefits available to Australian industry and communities from trade, including under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). Under the banner of Australian Dairy Industry Council (ADIC), our chair and ADIC deputy chair John Williams highlighted the importance of FTAs in expanding the sector's reach and supporting economic growth. Dairy is Australia's third largest rural industry, contributing $6.1 billion at the farmgate and employing almost 33,500 people across farms and processing. In 2023, 30 per cent of milk production was exported, valued at about $3.7 billion. Australia ranks 5th in world dairy trade, holding a 5 per cent market share, and FTAs play a critical role in driving growth. The 18 FTAs already in place help Australian dairy exports reach global markets, from Asia to the Middle East. Our key recommendations for continued success are: 🌏 Secure commercially meaningful outcomes in ongoing FTA negotiations. 🌏 Conduct regular reviews of FTAs to ensure Australia remains competitive. 🌏 Push for improvements in market access, including Taiwan and Japan. 🌏 Engage in strategic negotiations to protect national interests while seeking new trading opportunities. With rising demand, particularly in Asia, Australia’s dairy industry is well-positioned to leverage these agreements for sustainable growth and stronger global ties. Read our submission in full: https://lnkd.in/gkc3MaXz Janine Waller Kristin Favaloro Dairy Australia