As the African Continental Free Trade Area nears implementation, business executives across Africa remain optimistic, already confident given the continent’s large youth population, ongoing infrastructure development, and monetary and fiscal reform efforts. Of the 787 respondents to the second Business Barometer: OBG in Africa CEO Survey, more than 80% have positive or very positive expectations of local business conditions in the coming 12 months, while 72% think that the regional agreement will have a positive or very positive impact on intra-regional trade levels. Plans to expand the digital economy and create jobs also remain high on the agenda.