Non-Tariff Barriers are still posing a serious challenge to regional trade and integration in East Africa, a regional chief has said.

Speaking at the recently concluded private sector chief executives forum in Dar es Salaam, EAC Secretary-General Richard Sezibera said they account for significant proportion of the high transportation costs in the East African Community.

“Transportation costs are estimated to be 60-70 per cent higher than in the US or Europe, and 30 per cent higher than in southern Africa,” said Mr Sezibera.

In March this year, a key Bill on eliminating the barriers sailed through its third reading pending assent by Heads of State.

The objective of the Bill, which was moved by the council of ministers, is to provide a legal mechanism for elimination of identified NTBs in partner States.

According to the East African Business Council Chairman Felix Mosha, Eala played a significant role by passing the Bill, however, a number of issues crippling trade in the bloc still remain pending.

“They include fast-tracking implementation of the single customs territory so that intended benefits can be realised by removing unfair competition and encourage efficiency and competitiveness in EAC,” said Mr Mosha.

Source: Daily Nation

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