AfCFTA awards $3.1 billion contract to Nigerian firm for new customs platform
The African Continental Free Trade Area has signed a $3.1 billion agreement with Bergmans Security Consultants to build an interoperable customs system for member states.
At a ceremony last week, AfCFTA officials confirmed a $3.1 billion deal with Abuja-based Bergmans Security Consultants. The contract tasks the firm with creating a customs platform that links the clearance agencies of all participating countries. The initiative follows the launch of the free-trade area in 2021 and a recent 12.5% rise in intra-African trade to $220 billion. AfCFTA Secretary-General Wamkele Mene highlighted the need for smoother cross-border procedures. Analysts note that while trade volumes are growing, the pact still faces structural hurdles.
Why it matters
A unified customs platform could streamline African trade, lowering costs and encouraging further economic integration.
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