Inter-regional trade between countries in West Africa is promoted mainly by

Inter-regional trade between countries in West Africa is mainly promoted by the production of similar goods and deliberate government policies in recent times. West African countries produce similar goods such as agricultural products, textiles, and raw materials for industrial use. This creates opportunities for them to trade with each other to meet their respective needs and increase economic growth. In addition, governments in the region have recently implemented policies aimed at promoting regional trade, such as the adoption of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement, which aims to create a single market for goods and services in Africa. While relationships with former colonial rulers and competition among the nations in Africa may also play a role in inter-regional trade, they are not the main factors driving it. Frequent changes in government of different countries can actually have a negative impact on trade due to instability and uncertainty.