The implications of the European green deal for African agricultural exports

Abstract

The European Green Deal is the central policy blueprint for regional climate goals by 2050, and it can potentially affect African agricultural exporters. This study investigates related non-tariff barriers, focusing on the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, packaging, pesticide, fertiliser and traceability regulations. The research combines desk research, statistical analysis and expert interviews. Key findings indicate that while African agriculture may benefit from its relatively low carbon footprint, the increasing complexity of European Union regulations is posing a significant challenge for African agricultural exporters, mainly small-scale exporters. The study highlights the need for African agribusinesses to adapt to the evolving European Union regulatory landscape, invest in sustainable practices and packaging, monitor greenhouse gas emissions, keep track of land use change, restrict the use of pesticides, restrict the use of chemical fertilisers and pre-emptively adopt traceability and certification compliance requirements. As a parallel strategy, agribusinesses should seek to strengthen intraregional trade with trade-liberalising countries in Africa, where the costs imposed by tariffs and non-tariff barriers are being intentionally lowered.