Launch of €50M ATCMA ECOWAS Programme to boost Trade Competitiveness and Market Access in West Africa
ABUJA, 17 June 2025 – The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) component of the Africa Trade Competitiveness and Market Access (ATCMA) programme was officially launched as part of the broader EUR 200 million initiative funded by the European Union (EU) which spans multiple regions across Africa. Implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the International Trade Centre (ITC), this EUR 50 million regional component is carried out in partnership with the ECOWAS. Designed to enhance trade competitiveness and improve market access, the programme also seeks to strengthen regional quality infrastructure and boost both intra-African and Africa–EU trade. ATCMA spans multiple African regions and reflects a coordinated effort to advance regional integration, industrialization, and sustainable development, in line with ECOWAS Vision 2050, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and the African Union Agenda 2063.
Jointly implemented by UNIDO and ITC, the programme focuses on increasing the competitiveness of West African SMEs by aligning products with international standards, improving market access, and enhancing quality infrastructure. UNIDO Director General Gerd Müller emphasized the programme’s role in fostering green, inclusive economies and building sustainable supply chains.
Lassane Kabore, ECOWAS Director of Industry, underscored the initiative’s potential to improve product quality, increase sustainable trade, support SME export competitiveness, and protect both consumers and the environment. He extended appreciation to the EU for its funding and to UNIDO and ITC for their technical support.
EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, H.E. Gautier Mignot, highlighted the strategic importance of strengthening private sector capacity to attract investment, empower SMEs as well as youth and women entrepreneurs, and advance sustainable growth in line with the EU’s Global Gateway strategy.
The programme places a strong emphasis on support for women- and youth-led businesses, economic inclusion, and sustainable practices, aiming to deepen Africa’s integration into global trade systems.
Pamela Coke-Hamilton, ITC Executive Director, noted that the initiative reflects a shared commitment to building a resilient and prosperous West Africa by enhancing market access and export competitiveness.
A technical meeting also took place involving representatives from ECOWAS, the EU Delegation, UNIDO, and ITC to coordinate the programme’s operational framework and implementation.
Press Release: EUR50 million EU-funded ATCMA–ECOWAS programme to boost West African trade | UNIDO
For more information please contact:
Bernard Bau b.bau [at] unido.org and/or Christian Lasser c.lasser [at] unido.org
