First African Forum for National Trade Facilitation Committees

In its continued effort to support African Countries in their national and regional Trade Facilitation reforms, UNCTAD will organize the First African Forum for National Trade Facilitation Committees (NTFCs) in cooperation with the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa,  Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation, International Trade Centre, United Nations Centre for Trade Facilitation and Electronic Business (UN/CEFACT), United Nations Commission for Africa, World Bank Group, ?World Customs Organization, and World Trade Organization.

The Forum aims to be the reference event in Africa where stakeholders from the public and private sector, can boost together their capacities towards the implementation of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA).

Objectives of the Forum

• Knowledge sharing: The forum will invite world-wide experts to update participants on the latest trends in the implementation of the WTO TFA at the national and the regional level. Experts will also guide members of the NTFCs on how to reap the benefits from digital economy and the latest technologies such as blockchain, trade portals among others.
• Promoting best practices: Policy makers, Customs officers, and business representatives from 54 African Countries will drive the discussions on the success factors and lessons learnt in the implementation of Trade Facilitation reforms and solutions for challenges. 
• Matchmaking for cooperation: The event will offer a unique opportunity for African Countries to get information on the available Trade Facilitation programmes in the region. Participants will also be given the opportunity to meet with bilateral donors as well as regional and international organizations during a Trade Fair and networking activities.