Trade and Economic Integration in Africa

CrossLink Africa Executive Retreat: Trade & Economic Integration in Africa
Program Overview
The CrossLink Africa Executive Retreat is a high-level gathering designed for senior executives, policymakers, and industry leaders seeking to navigate the transformative landscape of intra-African trade, economic integration, and strategic leadership.
This exclusive retreat offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with top experts, industry decision-makers, and policymakers shaping the future of AfCFTA (African Continental Free Trade Area) and Africa’s economic growth.
Led by David Luke (LSE) and featuring esteemed speakers , the program blends expert insights, high-level discussions, and immersive industry experiences to deliver actionable strategies for navigating Africa’s evolving trade and investment environment.
Key Program Features
1. Strategic Leadership in Trade & Economic Integration
✔ Deep Dive into AfCFTA & Regional Trade Policies
Gain exclusive insights into the opportunities and challenges of Africa’s trade transformation, including market access, investment trends, and regulatory harmonization.
✔ High-Level Discussions with Industry Leaders
Engage in candid conversations with policymakers, financial leaders, and corporate executives on shaping Africa’s trade and business environment.
✔ Sector-Specific Case Studies
Analyze real-world challenges and solutions in trade, logistics, manufacturing, finance, technology, and agribusiness, ensuring direct applicability to your organization.
2. Immersive Learning & Industry Engagement
✔ Jebel Ali Port & DP World Site Visit
Go behind the scenes of one of the world’s largest trade and logistics hubs to understand how global trade networks operate and their implications for Africa.
✔ Expert-Led Simulations & Policy Workshops
Participate in interactive policy simulations and scenario-based workshops, designed to equip you with practical strategies for trade negotiations, investment structuring, and economic policy formulation.
✔ Public-Private Partnerships & Investment Opportunities
Explore how to leverage public-private partnerships (PPPs) for trade expansion, infrastructure development, and industrial growth within the AfCFTA framework.
3. Exclusive Networking & High-Impact Connections
✔ Elite Peer-to-Peer Networking
Join an exclusive cohort of senior executives, policymakers, and business leaders from across Africa and beyond.
✔ Curated Executive Dinners & Networking Receptions
Participate in private roundtable discussions and high-profile networking receptions with key stakeholders, trade ministers, and financial leaders.
✔ Access to a Global Business Network
Strengthen relationships with influential decision-makers, opening doors to collaborative partnerships and business opportunities.
Program Structure
- Duration: 5 Days
- Next Session: April 20-26, 2025 (Dubai, UAE)
- Accommodation: Luxury five-star hotel (JW Marriott Marquis) included in the program package for a premium and seamless experience.
Faculty and Instructors
The retreat is led by world-class faculty and industry experts, including:
✅ David Luke (LSE) – Leading expert on AfCFTA and trade policy
✅ Ministers from various African countries – Providing insights into regional trade policies and economic strategies
✅ Dr. Sidi Ould Tah – President of BADEA
✅ Top policymakers, business executives, and industry specialists
These experts will provide in-depth analysis, strategic insights, and real-world applications tailored to Africa’s economic and trade landscape.
$8,500
Standard Package
Designed for professionals seeking a complete immersion experience with expert insights, exclusive site visits, and premium networking:
- Full access to all expert-led sessions and guest speaker panels
- Exclusive visits to DP World and Jebel Ali Port with insights from senior leadership
- Six-night stay at the JW Marriott Marquis, Dubai in a deluxe room
- Working meals during sessions and roundtrip airport transfers
- Guided cultural tours of Dubai landmarks
- Certificate of participation and branded event materials
- Economy class round-trip ticket from a major African hub (for bookings completed by March 1st)
⚠️ Group discounts are available upon request
$14,000
Gold Package
This package offers a perfect blend of exclusivity and comfort, providing everything from the Standard Package, plus:
- An extended seven-night stay in a Junior Suite at the JW Marriott Marquis
- Invitation to an exclusive Networking Dinner with guest speakers
- Complimentary visa facilitation for seamless travel preparation
- Meet-and-Greet service at Dubai airport for VIP arrival
- An invitation to an exclusive cultural experience, showcasing Dubai's heritage and innovation
-
Personalized commemorative memento to mark your participation
⚠️ Group discounts are available upon request
$17,000
Diamond Package
Tailored for those seeking the ultimate luxury and personalized experience, providing everything from the Gold Package, plus:
- An extended eight-night stay in an Executive Suite with premium amenities
- Full board, including premium dining experiences throughout your stay
- Private luxury vehicle with chauffeur service available after sessions
- Reserved seating at the Speaker’s Table during formal networking dinners
- Participation in an exclusive small-group consultation with a guest speaker for tailored advice and insights
-
Exclusive privileges and curated event keepsakes to commemorate your participation
⚠️ Group discounts are available upon request
$350
Standard Virtual
- Live access to all keynote sessions & expert panels
- Interactive participation through live polls & feedback
- Digital access to presentation materials
- 14-day post-event access to session recordings
$500
Premium Virtual
- Includes All standard Items
- Live Q&A sessions with guest speakers & David Luke (Limited to key questions)
- Premium Virtual Networking during coffee breaks
- 30-day post-event access to all session recordings
- Post-event insights & executive summary report
Why Attend?
✔ Gain high-level insights from top experts & policymakers
✔ Access exclusive networking with Africa’s business & trade leaders
✔ Develop actionable strategies to capitalize on AfCFTA & trade opportunities
✔ Experience a world-class executive retreat with luxury hospitality & curated experiences
Join us in Dubai this April for an unparalleled learning and networking experience designed to equip decision-makers with the tools to drive Africa’s economic transformation.

