Djibouti Discusses AfCFTA Progress With AU Commission Chief

Ethiopia, 5 July 2026 –Djibouti Trade Minister Orbis Helaf Orbis and African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf met in Addis Ababa on Saturday to discuss progress on implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The discussions focused on the outcomes of the 18th Council of Ministers meeting of AfCFTA held in Abuja on June 30. AfCFTA is a key framework aimed at boosting intra-African trade and accelerating economic integration across the continent. Djibouti’s minister briefed the AU Commission chief on key conclusions from the Abuja meeting, including challenges surrounding implementation and opportunities for African economies under the trade agreement. The two sides also discussed the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the importance of aligning Djibouti’s national priorities with continental goals. The talks also covered areas including trade facilitation, infrastructure development, economic transformation, industrialization and job creation. On the sidelines of the Abuja meeting on June 30, the trade minister held talks with the Secretary-General of the AfCFTA Secretariat to discuss Djibouti’s strategic priorities and opportunities linked to the continental free trade area. Officials said the discussions reflect Djibouti’s efforts to position itself as a regional trade and logistics hub while expanding economic opportunities through deeper continental integration.