The highly anticipated Market Access Africa (MAA) 2025 conference officially kicks off today at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli ICC in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. It brings together influential voices from across the continent to drive forward Africa’s intra-continental trade and regional investment agenda.
Hosted by the African Agri Council in partnership with The KwaZulu-Natal Convention Bureau – Tourism and Film KZN, the two-day event comes at a pivotal moment for the continent’s economic evolution.
With only 16% of Africa’s exports currently traded within its borders, the conference aims to address structural barriers that continue to hinder the full realisation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
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“This gathering is not just another event – it is a strategic intervention,” says Ben Leyka, CEO of the African Agri Council. “Market Access Africa 2025 offers a vital platform for governments, businesses, and trade institutions to collaborate on practical solutions to unlock Africa’s economic potential.”
With representation from 23 countries, the conference boasts a diverse line-up of policymakers, agri-business leaders, trade experts, and development partners. Key themes include regulatory harmonisation, infrastructure development, value addition, and the creation of more open and competitive regional markets.
In addition to focusing on intra-African trade, delegates will explore strategies to strengthen the continent’s position in global markets – especially in agriculture, a sector seen as central to Africa’s growth.
“As South Africa prepares to assume the G20 presidency next year, this event positions the country – and the continent – as a key player in global economic conversations,” Leyka adds.
Market Access Africa 2025 runs until Tuesday, 3 June, with outcomes expected to shape not only trade policy but also investment priorities across the continent in the months to come.
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