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This "podcast episode" delves into the critical role of the G20 in addressing current global economic challenges, particularly focusing on restoring trust and fostering collaboration in international trade and investment. Themes discussed include the complex geopolitical landscape, the rise of protectionism, and the need for multilateral frameworks to ensure stability and growth.
Moneyweb Interview | Trade and Investment
What was discussed
- Restoring trust in global trade: Global trade has experienced heightened uncertainty driven largely by shifts in US trade policy. The G20 remains a critical platform for rebuilding confidence, strengthening multilateral institutions and re-establishing fair, rules-based global commerce.
- The importance of multilateral engagement: Despite reduced US participation this year, strong representation from Europe, Asia and other regions underscores continued global commitment to collaboration, open markets and modernising trade frameworks.
- Africa’s intra-continental trade opportunity: With only 16% of Africa’s trade occurring within the continent, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents a major growth lever. Realising this potential requires coordinated investment in rail, road and airport infrastructure, as well as streamlined borders and regulatory reforms.
- Mobilising capital for AfCFTA: Capital mobilisation depends on domestic economic reforms, lowering the cost of capital and using government budgets to derisk priority projects. Strong public-private coordination will be essential for building the infrastructure backbone AfCFTA requires.
- The role of public–private partnerships: PPPs are expected to become increasingly important in addressing infrastructure and trade constraints. Successful examples, such as renewable-energy projects, show that effective collaboration between government, business and labour can unlock large-scale investment.
- RMB’s role in enabling trade and investment: RMB supports clients by providing cross-border trade finance, project funding and risk-management solutions across Africa. Its economic research, including the Where to Invest in Africa publication, helps close the information gap for global investors and informs long-term investment decisions.
- Supporting Africa’s industrial and infrastructure growth: Across the continent, RMB is actively financing infrastructure, helping clients manage currency and interest-rate risks, and advising policymakers and investors on market dynamics, opportunities and challenges—ultimately facilitating Africa’s trade expansion and economic development.
