Africa has the potential to become a leading manufacturing region, like Asia. In the hopes of an employment boom, the continent can establish itself as a powerhouse in many production industries – but especially textiles. The economic situation has a chance to solidify trades between African countries to promote manufacturing of textiles, fabrics and footwear.
Africa has a younger population and, while this may be seen as a big asset when it comes to manufacturing, most of the younger generation struggle to find employment due to a lack of education and training. South Africa has one of the highest ratings of youth unemployment in the world, which needs to be changed in order to fully unlock the potential of trade and collaboration.
Africa could be the next powerhouse
China has seen dramatic growth within its textile manufacturing industry over the past decades, which has helped to transform the country. This has also played a role in growing global wealth. Africa has the chance to follow in the footsteps of these giants, especially in the textiles and fashion industries, through intracontinental trade.
China is moving to a more high-tech approach, rather than a labour intensive one. While this may be a technological step forward, there is room for Africa’s market to fill the gap and create more jobs for the population. Africa needs to ensure that they make intracontinental trading easier to truly reap the rewards of economic growth.
To expedite growth and facilitate trade and exports, better governance, business-friendly policies and support for enterprises need to be implemented in all sectors, especially the textile industry. Key elements of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), such as rules of origin, tariff reductions and services schedules, will help to make trade easier between countries. This will also benefit local businesses and communities across Africa.
The textile industry is an important sector for growth
Business-to-business spending in Africa is growing, which proves that partnerships and trades between African industries are a key element for growth and employment. African textiles have always been vibrant and unique, which helps to rebuild capacity and investment for trade and growth. The ultimate challenge is to build infrastructure that will be able to support this type of development.
Education and training for the youth is an important aspect too. It will help Africa to compete with modern manufacturing practices used in other countries, like China. With these challenges in mind, Africa also needs to create better public to private partnerships and intracontinental collaboration.
There are some textile manufacturers who are already harnessing the potential for growth and development through their established networks. In addition, trades with powerhouse countries will make certain textile businesses key roleplayers in African trade and the creation of jobs.
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