Mozambique has officially commenced its participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), following a launch ceremony held Saturday in the port city of Beira, led by Prime Minister Benvinda Levi.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Levi emphasized Mozambique’s growing trade ties across the continent, noting that exchanges with African partners totaled 7.1 billion U.S. dollars over the past five years. She called on the private sector to intensify investments in industrial development and infrastructure, key pillars of the government’s “Industrialize Mozambique” agenda.
“The AfCFTA provides a platform for strengthening strategic partnerships and expanding economic opportunities for our businesses,” Levi stated. She added that the agreement is not only about facilitating trade but also about fostering a more integrated model of public-private collaboration across Africa.
Mozambique’s engagement with the AfCFTA process began in 2018, when the country first signed the agreement. In 2024, Mozambique submitted its tariff schedule, which received formal approval from African Union leaders in February 2025. With this milestone, Mozambique now gains access to preferential trade with approximately 47 African countries under the AfCFTA framework.
Government officials expressed optimism that the agreement will drive greater market integration, stimulate industrial growth, and position Mozambique as a stronger player within the African economic landscape.