Unlock the Future of African Trade at the 3rd Annual AfCFTA Conference!
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24–25 July 2025

Johannesburg, South Africa
Theme: Empowering MSMEs: Catalysts for Regional Trade and Growth


About The Programme
The 3rd Annual AfCFTA Conference is designed to be a dynamic and impactful platform, bringing together thought leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and industry stakeholders to explore how the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) can empower Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). With the theme “Empowering MSMEs: Catalysts for Regional Trade and Growth,” this year’s program focuses on actionable strategies to help MSMEs thrive in the competitive regional and global marketplace.

Over two engaging days, participants will dive into a rich program filled with keynote speeches, panel discussions, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities. The conference will highlight the critical role MSMEs play in unlocking Africa’s economic potential and explore how the AfCFTA can eliminate trade barriers, increase market access, and foster cross-border partnerships.
Day one will focus on laying the groundwork for MSME growth, with sessions dedicated to understanding the current challenges and opportunities within the AfCFTA framework. On day two, attendees will explore innovative solutions and collaborative approaches, with a special emphasis on financing, technology adoption, and creating sustainable partnerships.
The program is tailored to offer participants practical tools, strategic insights, and meaningful connections that will empower them to take bold steps in driving trade and economic growth across Africa. Whether you’re a business owner, policymaker, or investor, this conference is your gateway to making a measurable impact in the AfCFTA era.
JOIN US FOR THIS IMMERSIVE LIVE EXPERIENCEOur Event Schedule
The ICLA 2025 conference is packed with engaging sessions designed to inspire, educate, and connect you with industry leaders and like-minded professionals.
DAY 1:
07:30 Registration and Networking
08:30 Opening remarks: Conference Chairperson
09:00-10:00 Session 1 - 60minutes Overview of the AfCFTA framework and its implications for MSMEs
10:00-11:00 Session 2 - 60minutes
Exploring alternative financing options, microfinance, and investment strategies
11:00 – 11:30 Tea Break
11:30 – 12:30 Session 3
Sector opportunities of the AfCTA
12:30-13:30 Session 4 - 60minutes
Support mechanisms needed for MSMEs to take advantage of the AfCFTA
13:30 – 14:30 Lunch Break
14:30 – 15:30 Session 5
AfCFTA National Implementation Strategies
15:30 Closing Remarks
DAY 2:
07:30 Registration and Networking
08:30 Opening remarks: Conference Chairperson
09:00-10:00 Session 1 - 60minutes
Policies that can promote MSME growth and ease of doing business in African nations
10:00-11:00 Session 2 - 60minutes
Breaking Trade Barriers: Enhancing African Market Access for SMEs
11:00 – 11:30 Tea Break
11:30 – 12:30 Session 3
Understanding the Trade in Goods and Services: AfCFTA Rules of Origin and Certification
12:30-13:30 Session 4 - 60minutes
Market Opportunities and effective go-to-market strategies for MSMEs
13:30 – 14:30 Lunch Break
14:30 – 15:30 Session 5
Open round-table discussion