A comparison of the provisions of the economic partnership agreements

The economic partnership agreements between the European Union and the five African regional blocs have been under negotiation since 2000. While framed as development-friendly asymmetric agreements that go beyond traditional free trade agreements, the economic partnership agreement process has been marred by controversy and divisions both within and outside the African continent. Among the key concerns that have been raised are the implications regarding Africa’s industrialization and regional integration agendas.