What is meant by 'overtakes' in this context?

Question

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The bulk of the exports from these two regions goes to Europe and the United States. Africa *overtakes* the transition economies, including Russia, as the largest regional supplier to Europe.

Answer 1

It certainly isn't the best word to use in your context. What it seems to mean here is: Africa had been behind other transition economies but has now not only caught up, but surpassed the others.

Answer 2

it means it has reached and surpassed a level achieved by somebody or something....

Answer 3

it means surpasses.