Digital trade has been identified as a critical enabler of Africa’s economic integration and a major driver of the successful implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), according to participants at the 2026 Biashara Afrika Conference.
The conference, held under the theme “Powering Africa’s Economic Transformation through the AfCFTA,” brought together policymakers, entrepreneurs, technology innovators and business leaders to examine how digital solutions can strengthen intra-African trade and expand opportunities for businesses across the continent.
Discussions at the event focused on the growing role of digital technologies in addressing longstanding barriers to trade, improving market access and supporting inclusive economic growth.
Participants noted that while the AfCFTA is creating a single continental market, digital trade is providing the practical tools needed to connect businesses across borders, facilitate transactions and improve access to information and customers.
Speakers stressed that Africa’s competitiveness in the global economy would increasingly depend on its ability to build an integrated digital marketplace that allows businesses of all sizes to trade efficiently throughout the continent.
A key topic of discussion was the AfCFTA Digital Trade Protocol, which seeks to establish a harmonised framework for e-commerce, digital payments, data governance and digital entrepreneurship.
Experts said the protocol has the potential to reduce business costs, support innovation and enhance the participation of African enterprises in regional and global value chains.
The conference also highlighted the growing opportunities digital trade is creating for women and young entrepreneurs. Participants observed that many women-led businesses, technology start-ups and youth-driven enterprises are increasingly using e-commerce platforms, online marketplaces and digital payment systems to expand beyond their domestic markets.
According to stakeholders, digital trade is helping to lower entry barriers for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), enabling them to reach regional customers more easily and at lower costs.
Several entrepreneurs shared experiences of leveraging digital platforms to serve customers in multiple African countries, demonstrating how the AfCFTA is translating from policy into practical business opportunities.
Participants said these experiences underscore the potential of digital trade to create jobs, stimulate innovation and accelerate the growth of African-owned businesses.
Despite the progress being made, stakeholders identified several challenges that must be addressed to fully unlock the benefits of digital trade.
Among them were the need for stronger digital infrastructure, improved internet connectivity, enhanced cybersecurity measures and greater interoperability of payment systems across African markets.
They called for stronger collaboration among governments, regulators, financial institutions and private sector actors to tackle these challenges and ensure that all countries and businesses benefit from Africa’s digital transformation.
The conference further recognised the role of digital trade in advancing financial inclusion and broadening economic participation.
Participants noted that digital solutions can help underserved groups gain access to markets and financial services while reducing transaction costs, thereby contributing to more inclusive economic development.
As implementation of the AfCFTA gathers momentum, stakeholders at Biashara Afrika 2026 expressed confidence that technology and innovation will play a central role in achieving the continent’s integration objectives.
They said digital trade is no longer a future ambition but an emerging reality that is transforming the way Africans buy, sell, invest and conduct business across borders.
For participants, building a digitally connected Africa remains essential to realising the AfCFTA’s vision of a prosperous, integrated and globally competitive continent.
