MARRAKECH, Morocco — Somalia has reinforced its commitment to regional economic integration after participating in the Second African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Business Forum, held in Marrakech from December 11–12, 2025.
The forum brought together African trade ministers, senior officials, business leaders, and private sector representatives under the theme “Together for the Efficient Implementation of the AfCFTA.” Discussions focused on practical strategies to strengthen intra-African trade, improve market access, and accelerate the effective implementation of the landmark continental trade agreement.
Somalia was represented by the Deputy Minister of Commerce and Industry, Mahmoud Ahmed Abdullahi (Abukaate), who took part in high-level engagements throughout the two-day event. On the sidelines of the forum, the deputy minister held bilateral meetings with senior AfCFTA officials, Morocco’s Prime Minister, the Moroccan Minister of Industry and Trade, and trade ministers from Tanzania, Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Djibouti.
The talks centered on strengthening bilateral relations, expanding trade and investment cooperation, and enhancing Somalia’s role in Africa’s broader economic integration. Particular emphasis was placed on leveraging AfCFTA opportunities to support Somalia’s private sector, boost exports, and promote sustainable economic growth.
Somalia’s participation highlighted the federal government’s determination to deepen regional trade integration and increase the country’s visibility in continental economic forums. Officials say engagement in platforms such as the AfCFTA Business Forum is critical to positioning Somalia to benefit from emerging trade and investment opportunities across Africa.
The AfCFTA, a flagship initiative of the African Union’s Agenda 2063, aims to create a single continental market for goods and services across 54 African countries, representing a combined GDP of more than $3.4 trillion. The Business Forum serves as a key platform for advancing this vision and supporting Africa’s long-term economic development.
