The European Union was finally able to finalize last week a long-negotiated economic partnership agreement with West Africa, which promises more job opportunities and sustainable economic growth for the region.
However, trade experts argue it may be too early to celebrate.
The EPA deal would allow both regions to fully open its markets to both parties, although under the negotiated terms, West African nations are given the flexibility to fully open their market when they deem they are ready. They are also allowed to keep tariffs or put in place safeguard measures on several "sensitive" agricultural products. The EU has agreed to a "partial and gradual opening of the West African market" and "not to subsidize any of its agricultural exports to West Africa."