1. Background
Rules of origin determine whether goods qualify for preferential treatment and therefore shape how firms source inputs across the continent.
2. Key Trade-Offs
Rules must prevent trade deflection without becoming so restrictive that African producers cannot use regional inputs efficiently.
3. Policy Options
Illustrative recommendations include simplified documentation, greater use of cumulation and stronger digital verification systems.
References
AfCFTA Secretariat. Rules of Origin materials.
WTO. Preferential rules of origin resources.
ESAMI-trapca. Trade policy materials.