Services trade: Benin accelerates its strategy within the AfCFTA framework

The annex of the Ministry of Industry and Trade hosted the launch, on Tuesday, of the national workshop on the use of the regulatory audit report on trade in services under the AfCFTA. The four-day gathering brings together experts, public authorities and technical partners around a major issue: making services a lever for growth and economic integration.

Representing the European Union delegation in Benin, Juan Luis Barbolla Cosme pointed to persistent imbalances in trade. “The finding is clear: gaps remain.” Praising the organisation of the meeting, he expressed “his deep gratitude to the authorities of the Republic of Benin,” while highlighting the strength of the partnership between the European Union and ECOWAS.

In a context where trade in goods still dominates discussions, the diplomat stressed the strategic importance of services: “Yet trade in services is of paramount importance, both for the European Union and within the framework of its cooperation with Africa.” With a sector accounting for about 25% of its GDP and 21 million jobs, the European Union intends to actively promote trade liberalisation in this area. “We are convinced that services are the engine of the modern economy,” he emphasised.

ECOWAS calls for accelerated reforms

On behalf of the ECOWAS Commission, Amadou Tiégana placed the issues in a continental perspective. “Economic integration is today an essential lever for development.” He recalled Africa’s ambition to build a common market for goods and services, while highlighting the structuring role of the services sector: “Trade in services occupies a central place. It accounts for more than 50% of the continent’s GDP.”

The regional official also emphasised ongoing progress in several key sectors — finance, transport, telecommunications, tourism — while highlighting the importance of the analytical tools developed with international partners. “These reports are major strategic tools […] for guiding national reforms and supporting trade negotiations.” For him, the workshop should help strengthen states’ capacities and lead to concrete recommendations: “We expect concrete results from this workshop.”

Representing the Minister of Trade, who was unable to attend, Tousséni Gomina, director of foreign trade, welcomed an initiative “aimed at better organising the services sector.” “It’s true that integration in services is not yet as advanced as it is for goods.” The Beninese official highlighted efforts made by the country in recent years to develop its potential, through targeted reforms and public policies. “Benin has been working for several years to develop its potential in the services sector.”

In a context of economic transformation, services appear as a strategic pillar: “They represent a significant share of GDP and play a key role in creating added value.” But challenges remain, particularly in terms of market organisation, statistics and SME competitiveness.

A workshop to prepare for the future

Beyond the speeches, the workshop is intended as a concrete working space for public and private stakeholders. The objective: to analyse regulatory frameworks, identify obstacles and propose appropriate reforms. “This forum is an opportunity to review the legislative and regulatory framework,” Tousséni Gomina said.

The Beninese government has made its ambition clear: to turn the country into a regional services hub. “Benin must position itself as a genuine services hub on the regional and international stage.” It was on this note of commitment that the workshop was officially launched, with hopes of laying the groundwork for a services sector that is more competitive, better structured and fully integrated into the AfCFTA’s regional dynamics.