Africa – the new frontier for international trade

Join Business TV presenter Michael Wilson live from The London Stock Exchange TV studios for the first in a ‘Trade with Africa’ series of live interactive streamed panel discussions

These are uncertain times for businesses, both in Africa and outside of Africa, looking to establish or grow their international trade.

With global trade treaties being torn up, a growing threat of tariff wars with the US and the uncertainty of Brexit, business leaders are looking to developing markets to expend their businesses.

One region which is often overlooked for business potential is Africa but for international businesses, the continent’s growth rates, urbanising population and growing consumer market represent myriad opportunities – given the right support.

Home to nine of the fastest-growing economies on earth, Africa’s mineral and agricultural resources have fuelled global growth and as its economies grow, so too does demand for goods and services, transforming the continent into a new frontier for European and Middle Eastern exporters.

With a market of 1.3 billion people and a rapidly expanding middle class, McKinsey research predicts consumers in Africa will buy more goods and services than Russia by 2020 – and only slightly less than India.

At the same time many international banks have withdrawn from Africa meaning corporates need solid financial support in order to enter this promising market.

But what are the opportunities and challenges of doing business with Africa?

How does the current global business uncertainty make trading with Africa more appealing?

And how vital is it to find banking partners who can combine access to export finance with access to the local knowledge needed to enter new markets?

Join our panel of experts for a live interactive streamed panel debate discussing the benefits and challenges of trading into and out of Africa. Hosted by respected international Business presenter Michael Wilson, the panel will be taking your questions on Africa’s growth potential, identifying opportunities for businesses as well as offering advice on overcoming the unique challenges that business in the region presents.