TradeRoots Africa: Transforming Opportunities for MSMEs

Anchored by the ICC Centre of Entrepreneurship, the initiative known as TradeRoots Africa is poised to transform the landscape for micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) across the continent. This strategic program aims to translate the recommendations from the B20 Special Report on Inclusive Trade and the spirit of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) into measurable opportunities for growth and collaboration.

Empowering MSMEs for Cross-Border Trade

John W.H. Denton AO, the Secretary General of the ICC, emphasizes the pivotal role of trade in Africa’s economic resilience. He states, “Every MSME that crosses a border strengthens Africa’s resilience, creates jobs, and expands the circle of opportunity – that is how trade leads to growth and shared prosperity.” This sentiment forms the backbone of TradeRoots Africa, which seeks to empower MSMEs by enhancing their ability to engage in both regional and global value chains.

A Three-Phase Support Strategy

TradeRoots Africa encompasses a comprehensive three-phase support strategy for MSMEs:

1. Export Readiness: This phase focuses on educating MSMEs about the intricacies of exporting and utilizing AfCFTA opportunities effectively.

2. Export Specialization: Entrepreneurs are guided to adapt their products and business models to align with the expectations and demands of new markets.

3. Export Acceleration: The initiative aims to connect MSMEs with essential partners, networks, and financial resources needed for successful market entry.

By concentrating on key sectors and trade corridors, TradeRoots Africa aspires to help innovators build resilient supply chains and unlock new opportunities.

Bridging Local and Global Solutions

During the B20 Summit, the ICC convened a closed-door session with its network of G20 national committees and affiliated chambers. This gathering, hosted by ICC South Africa and the Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry, reflected on how the ICC can serve as the voice of over 45 million companies in more than 170 countries. The dialogue centered around amplifying the representative voice of the real economy in global governance forums—including the G20, G7, BRICS+, and APEC.

Continued Support for the B20 Process

As a Network Partner for the B20 Secretariat, the ICC has played an instrumental role throughout the year, working closely with notable figures such as Cas Coovadia, South Africa’s G20 Sherpa, and Anthony Costa, Head of the B20 Secretariat. Their collaborative efforts have ensured that the global voice of business is accurately reflected in the recommendations directed at G20 Leaders.

South Africa’s historic role as the first African nation to preside over the G20 and B20 has set a progressive precedent for global economic governance, emphasizing inclusion and cooperation directed from the Global South.

Leadership and Expertise at the Forefront

The ICC mobilized its global network to support South Africa’s Presidency in the B20 process. Members from diverse regions contributed to the eight B20 Task Forces, enhancing policy recommendations with practical business insights. Key ICC leaders who played pivotal roles included:

• John W.H. Denton AO: Co-Chair of the Finance and Infrastructure Task Force.
• Lord Karan Bilimoria: Co-Chair of the Digital Transformation Task Force.
• Shinta Kamdani: Co-Chair of the Industrial Transformation and Innovation Task Force.

Recognizing the Impact of Collaboration

Through its role as the Network Partner to the B20 Trade and Investment Task Force, the ICC has strengthening its commitment to advancing inclusive trade. Collaborating with the Knowledge Partner BCG South Africa and Sponsor Absa, they produced significant insights captured in the B20 Special Report on Inclusive Trade.

Anthony Costa highlighted the powerful collaborative partnership between B20 South Africa and the International Chamber of Commerce: “This strategic alliance ensured that policy recommendations were not only forged with broad-based legitimacy but were also actionable, driving tangible impact on international economic governance.”

Building on Momentum

As South Africa concludes its groundbreaking G20 Presidency, the ICC is determined to maintain the momentum achieved. The organization aims to further the initiatives of TradeRoots Africa, focusing on trade facilitation, digitalization, and dispute resolution across the continent.

Busi Mabuza, Chair of the B20 South Africa Trade and Investment Task Force, captures the initiative’s ethos: “When we talk about a ‘more inclusive global trading system,’ we’re not just talking about adjusting the global rules – we’re talking about expanding who gets to participate. And Africa is ready.”

This ongoing effort emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in trade and the role of MSMEs as catalysts for sustainable economic development in Africa.