EPA, Regional Integration And Export From Africa

Abstract: Introduction: The trade relationship between the European Union (EU) and African coun-tries based on regional groupings, under the framework of Economic Partnership Agree-ment(EPAs) came to play in most countries in January 2008. It replaces the preferential trade treatment granted by the EU under the Lomé convention and Cotonou agreement which allowed African, Carribean and Pacific countries(ACP) greater access to EU markets as a means of leveraging African exports, and encouraging the competitiveness of African economies in the global economy. Method: This work explores basically secondary data sources on EU trade with regional blocs in Africa over the course of the last 27 years. Special attention is given to thematic concerns in the area of intra-regional trade, balance of trade as well as market share. Graphically presentations are utilized in certain instances across the work to serve illustra-tive purposes and to highlight trends established. Conclusion: The study uncovers compelling evidence suggestive of imbalances in trade be-tween the EU and her trading partners in Africa. It is anticipated that these imbalances could shrink export benefits for the African countries concerned. There is reason to be-lieve that problems associated with implementation of EPA‟s, deriving from the distinct development context of the various countries concerned will hamper their development prospects. As it is at the moment, it is quite obvious that these countries will have to live with the consequences of these agreements and strive to cope with new economic realities that seem clearly difficult to reverse.