The Africa Export Competitiveness Report 2024 presents a comprehensive evaluation of the continent’s export landscape, offering critical insights into performance, challenges, and opportunities for growth. In 2023, Africa recorded a GDP growth of 3.2% and a notable 7.2% rise in intra-African trade, totaling $192 billion. Despite these gains, Africa’s global merchandise export share remains disproportionately low at 2.67%, underscoring the urgent need for product and market diversification. Central to the report is the Africa Export Competitiveness Index (AECI), which assesses 40 countries across four key pillars: Enabling Environment, Demand Sophistication, Business Dynamism, and Export Performance. South Africa, Morocco, and Mauritius top the index, yet only 17 countries exceed the average score of 34.65, revealing widespread structural barriers to export growth. The report identifies inadequate infrastructure and complex regulatory frameworks as major impediments to competitiveness. It advocates for targeted investments in infrastructure, education, and technology to foster sustainable development. A significant focus is placed on gender inclusion, highlighting that women—who comprise 60–70% of informal cross-border traders—contribute only 20% of export value. The report calls for gender-responsive policies, especially through the AfCFTA Protocol on Women and Youth in Trade, to empower women and enhance their participation in formal trade. Concluding with strategic recommendations, the report urges improvements in export policy, infrastructure development, and inclusive trade frameworks. By addressing these systemic challenges, Africa can strengthen its global trade position and drive inclusive, sustainable economic growth across the continent.