Access to affordable, essential medicines is crucial for public health, yet remains a significant challenge across Africa. High prices, driven by fragmented procurement and limited local manufacturing, hinder healthcare systems. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents a unique opportunity to transform the pharmaceutical sector in Africa and address these issues.

This report examines the role of the AfCFTA in facilitating the procurement of essential pharmaceuticals and vaccines in Africa. It analyses the impact of the AfCFTA's rules of origin (RoOs) on the cost of imported medicines and vaccines, and explores how the landmark agreement can be used to support the development and growth of local pharmaceutical manufacturing capacity and value chains.

Report by the Overseas Development Institute