Export and International Trade Council

Purpose: Making Exports Worth More

The Export and International Trade Council brings together trade experts from across Africa whose cross-border experience helps firms sell beyond home markets. Africa still ships too much raw material out and buys finished goods in. This Council promotes export-readiness, facilitates partnerships and advocates for policies that keep more processing, jobs and value here.

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Our Vision

Raising African Value in World Markets

To help African producers move from exporting raw materials to selling processed and finished goods, first within Africa through the AfCFTA and then to the world on fair terms.

Our Mission

Advancing Value-Added Trade

  • Advocate for Fair Trade Terms: Work with governments and partner economies to end tariff escalation that punishes processed goods and to ease unfair standards barriers.
  • Foster Partnerships: Build links through trade missions, buyer meetings and long-term purchase agreements tied to local processing.
  • Enhance Export-Readiness: Offer workshops and guidance to meet buyer standards, and refer firms to the authorities that certify them.
  • Organise Trade Events: Host expos and buyer meetings, including at the Summit, to show African-made products.
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Expert Committee: Advocates for Value-Added Trade

The Export and International Trade Committee includes:

  • Trade Experts specialising in international commerce and export regulation.
  • Export-Ready Business Leaders with practical experience in overseas markets.
  • Policy Analysts to advocate for fair trade frameworks.
  • Logistics and Supply Chain Experts to streamline export operations.
  • Diplomatic Liaison Specialists to build international partnerships.

Engagement with Authorities: Building Trade Networks

National-Level Engagement:

  • Collaborate with export promotion agencies and national trade bodies to strengthen export support services.

Regional-Level Collaboration:

  • Partner with chambers of commerce and regional economic communities to advocate for regional export policies.

Continental-Level Representation:

  • Work with the AfCFTA Secretariat and trade ministries to simplify export processes and press for fair market access.

Global Partnerships:

Engage with diplomats at trade missions, embassies and international trade bodies to build networks and open markets for processed goods.

Council Convener: Leading Trade Advocacy

The Convener for Trade Advocacy will:

  • Represent Africa’s export interests in discussions with domestic and international partners.
  • Organise trade missions and oversee partnership initiatives.
  • Help local businesses keep pace with market trends and buyer requirements.

Why This Council Matters

  • For Businesses: Widens market access, raises revenue and builds recognition for African-made goods.
  • For Communities: Creates local jobs and economic opportunities.
  • For Africa’s Growth: Keeps more value on the continent and draws investment and fair, long-term partnerships.

Take African Makers Global

Join the Export and International Trade Council to open markets for your business and help Africa export more of what it makes. Become a Member Today and take the first step toward wider reach and impact!

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About

The Make In Africa Global Summit (MIAGS) is a global platform connecting leaders, businesses, investors, institutions and policymakers shaping the next era of economic growth across the Global South and Africa.

MIAGS advances South–South cooperation, trade, investment, industrialization, technology, infrastructure and economic resilience, creating platforms for dialogue, strategic partnerships and cross-border opportunities.

Our mission is to strengthen the Global South and Africa’s role in the global economy by connecting capital with opportunity, innovation with markets and economic priorities with action—while fostering a more connected, productive and influential economic future.

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