This paper examines the current non-tariff barriers (NTBs) to trade in goods in the East African Community (EAC). It identifies inefficiencies and delays at ports and customs, as well as transport delays, multiple transit fees, customs documentation, restricted axle load limits, too many weighbridges and police roadblocks, import and export inspection and certification procedures, arbitrary use of rules of origin and interpretation of standards and SPS requirements, and infrastructure constraints as major obstacles to the integration of the East African Community.

Impact on trade:

These barriers elevate the cost of trading across borders and severely impair the export competitiveness of trading partners, especially the landlocked EAC members.

Additional NTBs highlighted:

Other key non-tariff barriers highlighted in the paper include:

congestion of trucks at the port;

bribery and corruption;

business registration and licensing procedures;

import and export bans;

various national documents and inland terminal or transit parking yard procedures and facilities; and

poor flow or dissemination of policy information.