E-commerce is a key driver of global economic growth. In 2019, global online sales reached USD 26.7 trillion, reflecting a 4% increase compared to the previous year. In Africa, the sector has gained renewed momentum, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, with online sales rising significantly from 31% to 43%. In the ECCAS region, digital transformation is expanding at a remarkable pace. Mobile subscription penetration grew from 18% to 42% between the beginning of the last decade and 2019, and is expected to reach 46% by 2025. Similarly, the number of mobile internet users, estimated at 52 million in 2020, is projected to reach 86 million by 2025, representing 36% of the population. These trends open up significant opportunities for the development of e-commerce in the region.

To address the emerging challenges, a coherent and inclusive regional policy is essential. Such a policy must build on instruments at the international, regional, and national levels, including the African Union’s Agenda 2063, the AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade, and the AU Digital Transformation Strategy (2020–2030). Complementary strategies developed at the level of ECCAS and its Member States will also play a pivotal role in harmonizing digital policies, expanding connectivity, and fostering the inclusion of SMEs, women, youth, and rural populations in the digital economy. This approach seeks to stimulate cross-border trade, enhance the region’s international competitiveness, and contribute to deeper integration and sustainable economic growth.

With the entry into force of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), new opportunities and challenges lie ahead for Central Africa. To fully harness the benefits of trade liberalization among the 55 African States under the AfCFTA, the rigorous implementation of trade facilitation measures is indispensable.

The overall objective of this meeting is to support the strengthening of economic and trade integration in Central Africa, through the review and adoption of key legal and operational instruments.

Specifically, the meeting will focus on the technical review and pre-validation of the draft:
a. Inclusive Regional Policy for the Development of E-commerce in Central Africa; and
b. ECCAS Framework Law on E-commerce.