- Tanzania and Kenya plan to resolve most of the non-tariff barriers affecting cross-border trade by December.
- The decision was taken at a recent meeting of the Joint Commission on Cooperation (JCC).
Tanzania and Kenya plan to resolve most of the non-tariff barriers affecting cross-border trade by December. The decision was taken at a recent meeting of the Joint Commission on Cooperation (JCC). The JCC which is represented by senior government officials from both countries met in Nairobi. The five-day meeting in Nairobi, which ended on August 24th, according to reports was able to resolve several issues plaguing bilateral trade. The remaining issues are expected to be ironed out within the next four months.
The joint statement of the JCC stated that the meeting reviewed the progress made by the Joint Trade Committee in addressing 30 out of 64 challenges facing bilateral relations. The remaining 34 issues are to be resolved before the end of December 2021.
The resolved issues include customs clearance of soft drinks made in their territories, removal of inspection fees on processed products with a standardisation mark including wheat flour, and elimination of roaming calling fees following Tanzania’s entry into the Common Network Area. It has been reported that both sides have agreed to offer preferential treatment on cement made in their territories . Tanzania has agreed to install the Single Window System as Kenya did to enable faster clearance of goods. Additionally, both countries have decided to harmonise standardisation of veterinary products making them valid for export for up to 30 days. A permanent committee will monitor the implementation of decisions made. The JCC also signed a memorandum of understanding on the demarcation of the 800km border.
During the visit of Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu to Kenya in June this year, the committee identified 60 tariff and non-tariff barriers between the two countries. The JCC had only met once during the six-year term of the former President of Tanzania, Magufuli contributing to flaring up of the issues. This delay led to frequent detention of goods at the border, closure of entry points and disagreements over certification and standardisation.
