There has been a lot of optimism about opportunities for growth in Africa, with its young and growing population seen as just one of the drivers of future consumption on the continent.
But there are a number of obstacles that will need to be overcome if the continent hopes to make the most of the opportunities.
A key stumbling block is the lack of trade between African countries, which reduces their ability to offer the volumes necessary to make trading competitive.
Inter-African trade will help countries to develop, and increased gross domestic products will benefit all of its countries.
The East African bloc has been singled out by analysts for its success in co-ordinating trade in the region.
China's investment in Africa is growing at a rapid rate but its trade with Africa is still relatively small, suggesting there is room for more growth, particularly from China's side.