African exporters and entrepreneurs are set to benefit from a new package of UK trade reforms unveiled recently. Known as the Trade for Development, it is designed to simplify access to the UK market and strengthen economic ties between the UK and developing countries.

Upgrades include simplified rules of origin, which will enable all Developing Countries Trade Scheme (DCTS) countries, including those further up the value chain, such as Nigeria, to source inputs on finished goods from across the African continent, while ensuring that goods can continue to enter the UK tariff-free.

This is expected to support trade not just with the UK, but between African countries, helping to unlock the African Continental Free Trade Areas $3.4 trillion potential.

Last year, over £3.2 billion worth of goods imported into the UK from African countries benefitted from preferences granted by the UKs development trading arrangements.

UK Minister for Development, Jenny Chapman said, The world is changing. Countries in the Global South want a different relationship with the UK as a trading partner and investor, not as a donor. These new rules will make it easier for developing countries to trade more closely with the UK. This is good for their economies and for UK consumers and businesses.

UK Minister for Trade Policy, Douglas Alexander added that no country has ever lifted itself out of poverty without trading with its neighbours. Over recent decades trade has been an essential ingredient in lifting hundreds of millions of people out of poverty around the globe.

In addition to the DCTS changes, the UK will provide targeted support to help African exporters meet UK standards and navigate customs procedures.

They will also make it easier for partner countries to trade services, such as digital, legal, and financial services by strengthening future trade agreements.

The updated rules are part of the UKs wider Trade for Development offer which aims to support economic growth in partner countries while helping UK businesses and consumers access high-quality, affordable goods.

They also align with the UKs new Trade Strategy, which prioritises growth through global partnerships and future-facing markets.