The Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) has announced its second Annual Maritime Lecture (MAMAL), set for November 21, 2024, in Lagos.
This year’s event according to the association, will focus on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and its potential to eliminate trade barriers and enhance regional trade across the continent.
With the theme: “AfCFTA: Dismantling Trade Barriers and Navigating Regional Trade,” the lecture aims to delve into the challenges of regional integration and explore solutions that can unlock new economic opportunities.
The MARAN Annual Maritime Lecture is recognized as a flagship event for fostering dialogue and collaboration among key stakeholders in Nigeria’s maritime and trade sectors. This year’s event will bring together industry experts, government officials, and trade professionals to address the evolving landscape of maritime trade within the context of AfCFTA.
Speaking on the importance of this year’s theme, Oluyinka Onigbinde, Chairman of this year’s lecture, siad:
“As Africa moves towards the full implementation of the AfCFTA, there is an urgent need to address the persistent trade barriers hindering the region’s economic integration. This lecture aims to provide deep insights into these barriers and explore actionable solutions that will not only strengthen intra-African trade but also position Nigeria as a major hub in this evolving landscape.”
The AfCFTA, which seeks to create a single market for goods and services across Africa, is widely regarded as a transformative agreement. However, issues such as regulatory differences, inadequate infrastructure, and non-tariff barriers continue to obstruct seamless trade between African countries. These issues will be addressed during the lecture.
According to him, the event will feature a lineup of distinguished speakers from various sectors, who will discuss topics including:
· The impact of AfCFTA on regional trade routes
· Development of port infrastructure to accommodate increased trade
· Harmonization of regulations across African nations
· The future of shipping and logistics in Africa’s trade landscape
The lecture is set to offer critical insights that could guide Nigeria in harnessing the full potential of AfCFTA, positioning the country as a key player in the continent’s economic integration. MARAN invites maritime stakeholders, trade professionals, and the general public to join this important discussion.
