Africa in the post Uruguay round : raising Africa's competitiveness in the changing global economy of the twenty-first century

Abstract

This paper examines Africa's competitiveness in the global economy post-Uruguay Round, focusing on the continent's marginalization due to heavy reliance on primary commodities and declining market share. It explores theoretical frameworks, including the Heckscher-Ohlin model and global general equilibrium analysis, to understand Africa's export structure and resource endowments. The paper discusses policy initiatives to enhance competitiveness, emphasizing the need for diversification into non-traditional exports and manufacturing. It concludes that Africa must address structural weaknesses, improve infrastructure, and implement strategic reforms to integrate effectively into the global trading system and achieve sustainable growth.