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Abstract African trade policy and patterns are deeply rooted in the continent’s colonial history. Most African states undertook economic reforms that sought to transform their economies from the colonial legacy inherited from the colonial masters. Other countries undertook reforms at the prescription of the global economic and financial institutions as part of conditions to access funding. Furthermore, contemporary waves of regionalism and globalisation that ensued also greatly shaped the pattern of trade and policy in Africa. These historical phases shaped the structure, orientation and effectiveness of trade policy across the continent. Much hope is now pinned on the potential of the AfCFTA (African Continental Free Trade Area) that seeks to integrate the whole continent into one giant manufacture and market. This has a huge potential of curving the African continent as a significant player on the international arena. Continental trade policy will be framed around the objectives and mandates of the trade agreement.