Gambia ratifies African continental free trade area agreement

Gambia's National Assembly on Monday ratified the agreement that seeks to establish African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Lamin Jobe, Gambia's trade minister, while presenting the motion before lawmakers, said it would address the country's international trade difficulties.

"This document will definitely serve as a take-off point to enhance the free movement of people, goods and services. By using this, there are a lot of advantages that we can gain from the implementation of this agreement," he said.

Sidia Jatta, a member of the assembly, described it as an "excellent idea", but said value addition should be promoted to boost exportation of local products.

AfCFTA is aimed to promote movement of people, goods and services across the continent.