Start exporting to Africa

Exporting to Africa

Research new markets, learn which sectors are in demand, and check how to export your product or service. Find out more about:

• African markets in the markets section of the GREAT website (you will need to register for an account to access more detailed information)
• trade and investment between the UK and African countries in the trade and investment factsheets
• Exporting goods from the UK: a step by step guide
• Export customs duties and procedures
• Learn to export (you will need to register for an account to access this)
• if you need an EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) and how to apply for one

Get help from the UK government

If you are a UK business interested in exporting to Africa, you can contact DIT.Africa@fcdo.gov.uk for advice on:

• how to export your products to your chosen market
• how to make useful business connections in your chosen market
• how to get export finance and insurance from the government

You can also get advice if:

• you are already exporting to Africa and would like to expand
• you need help fixing problems you are having with exporting to Africa

Find export opportunities

Apply for exporting opportunities in African markets, attend a trade mission, apply for tender opportunities, and learn how to win projects:

• find an export opportunity for your business

• search a list of trade missions related to ‘Africa’ (you will need to register for each event you are interested in)

• search the list of World Bank commercial and tender opportunities

• read guidance on aid funded business for UK companies on winning business from international aid and development projects

Managing risks in exporting

Learn about the risks of doing business abroad, including trade barriers, and how to avoid them:

• Overseas Business Risk service provides information organised by country on political, economic and security risks when trading overseas

• read guidance on helping your business manage the risks of bribery and corruption

• read guidance on managing payment for export orders, how to protect your business against financial risk including invoicing and non-payment

• search for barriers to trading and investing abroad by sector or country

• read Travel Advice: country-specific guidance about travelling abroad