As Africa’s fashion industry evolves, cities like Lagos, Johannesburg, and Dakar are emerging as dominant creative powerhouses positioning the continent for deeper integration into the global fashion economy. However, their sustained growth and competitiveness depend on the strength of their legal and regulatory frameworks, particularly in business compliance, intellectual property (IP) protection, and trade policies.​ Beyond Africa, global fashion capitals such as Paris, New York, and Milan have played influential roles in shaping the legal frameworks of the fashion industry and although these cities are continually adapting to new challenges, they still offer valuable frameworks for comparison. 

 

This report provides a critical analysis of how Lagos, Johannesburg, and Dakar regulate fashion businesses, protect creative assets, and facilitate trade—contrasting their approaches with those of established global fashion centers. By identifying legal gaps and opportunities for reform, it offers fashion entrepreneurs, policymakers, and legal professionals a strategic framework for strengthening Africa’s fashion law landscape and driving sustainable industry growth.