Tanzania’s Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa At the opening of the 4th Afri-Caribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF 2025), held at the Radisson Conference Centre in St. George’s, Grenada, called on African and Caribbean nations to work together more closely to overcome the challenges limiting trade and investment between the two regions.
Speaking on behalf of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, Majaliwa emphasized the need for open and honest dialogue to clearly identify the barriers that currently hamper economic cooperation.
“It is only through frank discussions that we can uncover the real obstacles that prevent the growth of trade between Africa and the Caribbean,” Majaliwa stated. “Once these are identified, we can begin to craft targeted, effective solutions.”
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He highlighted the importance of creating investor-friendly environments, urging governments to build regulatory frameworks and policies that attract long-term investments.
“We must demonstrate strong cooperation with investors committed to sustainable projects that will benefit our people and economies for years to come,” Majaliwa added.
The Afri-Caribbean Trade and Investment Forum, established to promote greater economic collaboration, brings together government officials, private sector leaders, and investors from both regions. Past forums have focused on sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and technology, with increasing emphasis on sustainable development goals.
Trade between Africa and the Caribbean, while rooted in shared cultural and historical ties, remains underdeveloped due to factors such as logistical challenges, market access limitations, and regulatory hurdles. Participants at ACTIF 2025 expressed optimism that stronger partnerships could unlock new opportunities and deepen trade relations.
With global economic shifts underway, cooperation between the African Union and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is gaining importance as both blocs seek to increase their influence in global markets.