According to an agreement that will be signed next month in Cairo, three African economic groups will be merged into a free trade area. It will take more than 20 members market together that for 58% of economic activity across the continent. This action will create "a huge free trade alliance" whose range stretches from South Africa to Ethiopia.
Industry and trade minister of Egypt said, "just like any free trade agreement, the implementation of specific work is to be taken step by step. Some countries do speed faster than other countries, it depends on the national economic structure and ability. But, the free trade area must be built. "
South African trade and industry said that reaching the agreement between the parties has taken a long time, this is a "three-way alliance" composed of the common market, the southern African development community (SADC) and the east African community.
Africa free trade area may be set up in 2015,a year ahead of schedule if all goes well.