Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), has downplayed the impact of President Donald Trump’s tariffs on Africa, explaining that the region's trade relationship with the United States remains limited.
During an interview at the World Bank’s Spring Meetings in Washington, D.C., on Friday, Okonjo-Iweala revealed that only 6.5 percent of Africa’s exports are directed to the US, while just 4.4 percent of its imports come from the country. This means that the tariffs imposed by the Trump administration have had only a marginal effect on the continent's overall trade dynamics.
“The trade between Africa and the United States is very limited. Our analysis shows that the impact of these tariffs on the continent as a whole is not significant,” Okonjo-Iweala explained.
She stressed the importance of Africa becoming more self-reliant, urging the continent to focus on increasing intra-Africa trade instead of relying on external trade partners like the US. She pointed to Lesotho as an example, explaining that the country had been heavily reliant on exporting textiles to the US but now faces challenges due to the shrinking American market.
Okonjo-Iweala highlighted that Africa spends about $7 billion annually on textile imports and suggested that Lesotho, along with other African nations, should look to enhance intra-continental trade to boost economic growth.
“We cannot continue to depend on external trade where Africa’s share is only 3 percent of global trade, while intra-Africa trade remains between 16 to 20 percent at most,” she said.
Despite acknowledging the limitations of Africa’s current trade links with the US, Okonjo-Iweala noted that this lack of significant trade with the US is not ideal for Africa’s long-term economic development.
She concluded by urging African nations to prioritize self-sufficiency, develop stronger internal trade networks, and reduce reliance on foreign trade, particularly with markets that may be shrinking or unstable.
Recall that the president of America, Donald Trump, on April 2, 2025, announced a 10 percent baseline tariff on countries across the world before he announced a 90-day reciprocal tariff pause on April 9.
| Posted: at | |
TRENDING GISTS 
Ex Madrid Player, Xabi Alonso Seals Managerial Move To Real Madrid As Ancelotti Bows Out
EFCC Roars, Vows Tompolo Is Not Above The Law And Will Be Prosecuted
I'm No Longer Interested, My Spirit Has Left There - Fubara Speaks on Returning As Rivers Gov. (VID)
Panic In Abuja As Pastor Shoots Two Immigration Officers After Being Mistaken Them For Robbers
Retired Teacher, Mallam Kabiru Killed, Wife Abducted As Bandits Invade Zamfara School Quarters
Army Busts Gunrunning Syndicate in Plateau, Two Arrested With AK-47 (Photos)