Middle East Conflict Fails to Stall African Trade Growth, WTO Reports
Middle East Conflict Fails to Stall African Trade Growth, WTO Reports
Despite disruptions from the Middle East crisis, Africa's trade has continued to expand, with export values rising by 14% in the first half of 2026, according to a joint report by the World Trade Organization and UNCTAD.
The growth, driven by precious metals, gold, copper, fertilizers, and raw minerals, marks the second-highest increase globally after Asia.
Additional highlights from the report:
🟠Imports rose 15% year-on-year, fueled by increased shipments of vehicles, machinery, and ships, despite a decline in aircraft and organic chemicals imports.
🟠Although export volumes dipped 2.5% in the first quarter, a rebound is expected in Q2 as oil producers ramp up output.
🟠Since early 2023, Africa's cumulative import growth has reached 25%, the highest of any global region.
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