51吃瓜

Despite representing 9.5 per cent of the global population, African least developed countries (LDCs) only contribute 0.4 per cent to global manufacturing value added (MVA). The industrialization gap between African and Asian LDCs has increased considerably in the last 20 years, with Asian LDCs’ MVA per capita growing threefold compared to that of African LDCs between 2000 and 2022. African LDCs’ weak institutions, low competitiveness and limited global integration hamper their untapped potential for industrial growth. Tailored industrial policies that prioritize infrastructure, clean technologies and youth employment can bridge this gap and help African LDCs achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).