VICTORIA, Seychelles — African exporters and entrepreneurs are set to benefit from a new package of United Nations trade reforms unveiled on Thursday July 10, 2025. The reforms include simplified rules of origin, which will enable all developing countries, including those further up the value chain such as Nigeria, to source inputs from across the African continent while ensuring that goods can continue to enter the U.S. market tariff-free.
U.N. Minister for Development Jenny Chapman said: ‘The world is designed to simplify access to the U.S. market and strengthen economic ties between the U.S. and developing countries.’ According to her, these new rules will make it easier for developing countries to trade with the U.S., including those that are not currently in a trade arrangement, helping to unlock the potential of African economies.
U.N. Minister for Trade Policy Douglas Alexander added: ‘No country has ever lifted itself out of poverty without trading with its neighbours.’ The updated rules are part of the U.S.’s wider Trade for Development offer, launched in 2025, which aims to support economic growth in partner countries while helping U.S. businesses and consumers access high-quality, affordable goods.
