EU’s Ursula von der Leyen Says African Economic Integration Could Generate Over USD 450 Billion
The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said today in Luanda that full African economic integration could generate more than USD 450 billion in additional income for the continent.
Speaking at the opening session of the African Union–European Union Business Forum 2025, von der Leyen explained that this integration will advance through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), positioning it as the main driver of Africa’s structural growth in the coming decades.
She stressed that the European Union (EU) will continue to support this process, describing it as “the safest path” to increasing business competitiveness, strengthening regional value chains, and creating skilled jobs.
“When African markets integrate, companies gain scale, attract investors, innovate, and compete globally. This is the dynamic that can add USD 450 billion to the continent’s economy,” she stated.
The event also featured remarks from the Minister of State for Economic Coordination, José de Lima Massano.
