UNECA Launches Statistical Tool to Enhance Trade Integration in Africa

The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) has unveiled a new statistical tool, the African Continental Input-Output Table (AfCIOT), aimed at strengthening trade integration across the continent, Xinhua reported yesterday.

Launched on Friday, December 6, the AfCIOT is designed to assist policymakers, businesses, and researchers in making informed decisions by analyzing the production and trade dynamics of goods and services across borders.

Oliver Chinganya, Director of the African Center for Statistics at UNECA, emphasized that the tool will facilitate the identification of cross-border value chain opportunities and assess the impact of policy decisions. As the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) progresses, the need for accurate data is critical for evidence-based trade policy development.

The AfCIOT seeks to transform Africa’s trade narrative by promoting intra-African trade and optimizing local value-added production, thereby supporting sustainable economic growth and enhancing regional cooperation among African nations.