The Evolution of Economic Development in Africa: African Trade, 1948-2017

The book examines the evolution of African (goods and services) trade in terms of value and share of global commerce relative to other regions from 1948 to 2017. It identifies and discusses changes in the composition and structure of African exports and imports between 1995 and 2015 and their implications for economic development. The study attributes Africa's laggard trade performance to sub-optimal macroeconomic policies, lack of bold export development policies, and inhibitions to structural transformation. The analysis of cross-border trade is a useful reference material for academics, students, and policymakers.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 412 pages
Publication date: 09 January 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The book delves into the intricate dynamics of African (goods and services) trade within the framework of the trade-growth and structural transformation-growth nexuses,spanning a period from 1948 to 2017. It conducts a comprehensive examination of the evolution of African trade in terms of value and share in global commerce compared to other regions. Furthermore, it identifies and explores notable shifts in the composition and structure of African exports and imports between 1995 and 2015, shedding light on their potential implications for economic development across the continent.

The study attributes Africa's relatively sluggish trade performance during this period to a combination of sub-optimal macroeconomic policies, a lack of audacious export development strategies, and other factors. It also provides a thought-provoking analysis of various impediments to the structural transformation of African exports and imports, encompassing issues such as limited financing, globalization, tariffs, and non-tariff measures in global markets.

The discussion of the evolution of African trade during 1948–2017, based on extensive statistics and publications from international organizations such as the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the World Bank, and the African Development Bank, among others, stands as a pioneering effort in terms of its scope and depth of review. The analyses of cross-border trade during this period and their implications for Africa's economic development prospects serve as valuable reference materials for academics, students, and policymakers engaged in African and development studies, as well as African and international policymakers.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367749224