Overcoming the circularity divide: accelerating a circular apparel transition in Africa through trade

Abstract Trade is critical to unlocking the global circular transition. However, low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) often struggle to reap these benefits. With a focus on Africa’s textile and apparel sector, this article explores how LMICs can leverage trade and trade agreements to accelerate a circular transition domestically. It identifies circular economy opportunities in the textile and apparel sector in Africa, and includes an analysis of how African countries can leverage relevant agreements of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to unlock these opportunities. In doing so, this article highlights the need for LMICs to adopt a proactive approach to fully utilize the opportunities presented by the circular transition.