US draws West Africa closer

The US Chamber of Commerce is forming a new business partnership with West Africa in order to strengthen trade and investment ties.

The alliance links the Chamber with the 15-nation Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), creating the US–ECOWAS Business Initiative (USEBI).

USEBI consists of US  and West African companies working to increase two-way trade by removing or reducing commercial barriers, and by fostering a better understanding of their respective investment climates.

The initiative will focus on advocating for trade agreements, removing obstacles to trade and investment opportunities, launching policy-driven initiatives to promote bilateral trade and foreign direct investment, and strengthening US-ECOWAS cooperation on energy. It intends to facilitate trade, supply-chain and transportation development and grow the manufacturing base. 

Scott Eisner, vice president of African affairs at the US Chamber, said, “Improved connectivity and infrastructure amongst African countries – superior rail, air, and water transportation systems – will set the stage for US businesses to engage in key sectors that will drive economic growth in those countries in a mutually beneficial manner.”