Working group event in Cotonou to share the workplan of the project on transit, transport and trade facilitation in West Africa for better participation in value chains

This meeting aimed at sharing the work plan of the project on facilitation of transit, transport and trade in West Africa for better value chain participation with the National Trade Facilitation Committee and the representatives of related local institutions and representatives from both the private and public sector in order to gain relevant insights and connect with a vast array of player involved in transit, transport and trade facilitation.

During the meeting, the National Implementation Unit of the Enhanced Integrated Framework welcomed the guests and opened the floor. The UNCATD introduced the project objectives and results then the National Trade Facilitation Committee presented the status of the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement in Benin. Finally, the UNCTAD team presented the project work plan with the related products and activities.

The event concluded with a debate and a dynamic exchange with the audience sharing insights and perspectives. From customs representatives, transport association representatives, relevant ministries such as the Ministry of Commerce and the Ministry of Transport as well as representatives from Webb Fontaine and Single Window systems, all came together to assist for the good implementation of the project.

This workshop was well received by the audience, as it takes into account the Trade Facilitation in West Africa project funded by the World Bank while concentrating at subregional level - between Niger, Benin and Burkina Faso which are the 3 beneficiary countries of this project - in order to improve access to a functional transit program based on simplified customs and border regulations, better cross-border operations, and correct implementation of the legislation and regulatory practices.