WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has stated that the recent U.S. tariffs imposed under President Donald Trump will have a minimal effect on African economies. Speaking at the World Bank Spring Meetings in Washington D.C., she explained that only 6.5% of Africa’s exports go to the U.S., and just 4.4% of its imports come from there, indicating limited direct exposure.
However, she emphasized that Africa’s limited trade with the U.S. is not ideal, as it hinders economic growth. She urged African nations to strengthen intra-African trade, noting that intra-African trade remains at 16 to 20 percent at best.
Okonjo-Iweala also highlighted the importance of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a critical tool in achieving this goal. She called for increased investment in Africa, pointing out that aid flows are declining, and the continent must build resilience through self-sustained growth.