AUC Launches Continental Trade Programme for Pan-African Trade

The American University in Cairo (AUC) has launched the African Regional Trade Professional Certificate in collaboration with the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, represented by the Egyptian Agency for Partnership of Development (EAPD).

The specialised executive education programme will cater to needs and requirements of business delegates operating in regional trade within Africa. Fully supported by the Foreign Ministry, the joint-collaboration is a timely effort which seeks to support Egyptian trade in the continent as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement comes into effect--an accord which requires the removal of tariffs from 90% of goods to strengthen regional free trade.

The six-month professional certification programme seeks to channel intra-African trade to boost the continent’s economic development by enabling delegates to better identify commercial opportunities, build successful strategic partnerships, and level-up in operational efficiencies. Additionally, it seeks to tap into the potential of pan-African trade to accelerate economic development within the continent, encouraging cross-country collaboration and enhancing the capacities of those involved in trade businesses.

During the programme’s launch, AUC School of Business Dean, Sherif Kamil, said: “Today, we welcome 29 participants from 13 African countries aiming to build the needed trade skills, enrich trade knowledge and explore trade opportunities among representatives of participating countries.”

Secretary-General of EAPD, Ambassador Mohamed Khalil, added that “the creation of the EAPD and the strong political backing it enjoys reflect Egypt’s [determination] to partner with Africa at a time when the continent is undergoing major positive developments.”

The programme’s first run will conclude in November 2021, with the certificate to be offered to export and import managers, business development managers, professionals in the chambers of commerce and industry unions, and government employees within the Ministries of trade and industry.