Value chains are the combined steps involved in making a product, from mining and producing raw materials to producing the final goods sold to consumers. They involve multiple firms in multiple countries, often spanning the globe. African regional value chains can help create jobs, add value within African economies and support long-term economic growth. Many African countries are major exporters of raw goods and importers of finished goods. While the level of value addition in intra-African trade is rising, a focus on regional value chain support could help shift this economic model. But this will require aligned interests and policies, not least with private sector actors.