Africa is expected to see the biggest benefits from the full implementation of the WTO TFA with a 35% increase in exports and a 16% reduction in trade costs (WTO, Trade Report, 2015).
Indeed, African countries predicted the potential benefits trade facilitation reforms could bring to the continent long before the end of the WTO TFA negotiations. Since then, they have embarked in national and regional initiatives to eliminate red tape.
This session will look at the key factors for the successful reforms, highlighting the unique African approach, and how to overcome the challenges. Experts will also discuss how trade facilitation reforms can leverage to spur economic growth and development.
Finally, the session will foresee the African Trade Facilitation Agenda for the next ten years in the new era of the digital economy.
Moderation and Introduction by Ms Shamika Sirimanne, Director, Division on Technology and Logistics, UNCTAD
Speakers:
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Mr David Luke, Coordinator African Trade Policy Centre, UNECA
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Mr Dhunraj Kassee, Senior Policy Officer, AUC
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Mr Manuel Henriques, Senior Private Sector Development Specialist, WBG
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Mr Eugene Torero, Director, Trade Policy and Facilitation, TradeMark East Africa
