Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), has stated that U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed tariff policies are expected to have minimal impact on African economies, even if fully implemented.
It was gathered that Okonjo-Iweala made this remark during a media briefing on global trade trends held in Geneva, Switzerland, where she addressed concerns over Trump’s latest comments regarding the reintroduction of sweeping tariffs should he return to office.
The WTO chief emphasized that Africa’s trade volumes with the United States are relatively modest compared to other regions, and much of the continent’s exports to America already benefit from preferential trade frameworks such as the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which could shield them from the worst effects of new tariffs.
Okonjo-Iweala also pointed out that Africa’s growing diversification of trading partners, particularly with Asia, Europe, and within the continent itself through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), provides an additional buffer against external shocks from policy changes in the United States.
She urged African leaders, however, not to be complacent but to continue pursuing policies that boost local manufacturing, reduce over-dependence on commodity exports, and strengthen regional trade linkages to safeguard against global uncertainties.
It was gathered that Trump, during a recent campaign rally, reiterated his intention to impose tariffs on a wide range of imported goods, a move critics warn could ignite trade wars and slow down global economic recovery.
However, Okonjo-Iweala stressed that while global trade tensions are worrisome, Africa’s smaller exposure to U.S. trade flows gives it a unique opportunity to focus inward and build resilience.
Analysts have noted that while sectors like textiles and agricultural exports to the U.S. could experience some disruptions, the broader economic impact on Africa will be marginal compared to the possible consequences for larger trading partners such as China and the European Union.