With a market of 1.3 billion people and a rapidly expanding middle class, consumers in Africa will buy more goods and services than Russia by 2020 – and only slightly less than India, said a report from global management consulting firm McKinsey.

Home to nine of the fastest-growing economies on earth, Africa’s mineral and agricultural resources have fuelled global growth and as its economies grow, so too does demand for goods and services, transforming the continent into a new frontier for European and Middle Eastern exporters.

One region which is often overlooked for business potential is Africa but for international businesses, the continent’s growth rates, urbanising population and growing consumer market represent myriad opportunities – given the right support.

BACB, a UK regulated bank, with expertise in international trade recently hosted a panel of experts for a live interactive streamed panel debate discussing the benefits and challenges of trading into and out of Africa.

Hosted by respected international Business presenter Michael Wilson, the panel took questions on Africa’s growth potential, identifying opportunities for businesses as well as offering advice on overcoming the unique challenges that business in the region presents.

Watch the first in a ‘Trade with Africa’ series of live interactive streamed panel discussions.  - TradeArabia News Service