The African continental free trade area (AfCFTA) represents a transformative opportunity for African economies to enhance intra-continental trade and accelerate economic diversification. This study examines Chad’s strategic position within emerging continental market, analysing the country’s comparative advantages, structural challenges, and potential pathways for maximising benefits from trade liberalisation. Using a mixed-method approach combining document analysis, trade data evaluation, and policy review, we identify key sectors where Chad possesses competitive advantages, including petroleum products, livestock, gum arabic, sesame, and cotton. The research reveals that while Chad faces significant challenges from infrastructure deficits, institutional weaknesses, and limited productive capacity, the AfCFTA presents substantial opportunities for developing regional value chains and expanding service exports. We propose a strategic framework for Chad’s successful integration into the continental market, emphasising targeted investments in export-ready sectors, infrastructure development, trade facilitation, and institutional capacity building. The findings contribute to the literature on trade policy in landlocked developing countries evidence-based recommendations for policymakers navigating regional integration processes.