November 4, 2024 – Arusha, Tanzania: The Senate Liaison Committee from Kenya, led by Sen. Kathuri Murungi, Deputy Speaker of the Kenyan Senate and Chairperson of the Senate Liaison Committee paid a courtesy visit to the East African Business Council (EABC) to explore collaborative opportunities aimed at strengthening private-sector contributions toward a competitive, export-driven economy in East Africa.
During the visit, Mr. Frank Dafa, Manager – Trade in Goods, speaking on behalf of Mr. Adrian Njau, Acting CEO of EABC, expressed appreciation for the Senate Liaison Committee’s commitment to the private sector. He noted that intra-EAC trade remains stagnant at 15%, largely due to recurring non-tariff barriers. Mr. Dafa highlighted the need for a collaborative approach to overcome these trade constraints and improve trade flows across the region.
Key areas of discussion included:
- Full implementation of the EAC Single Customs Territory by Kenya posting her officials to the Tanzanian Border point.
- Encouraging local content by sourcing materials within the region to enhance economic integration.
- Streamlining export and import permits, which currently impede trade.
- Addressing the unharmonized domestic tax regime and discriminatory taxes affecting cross-border businesses.
- Reviewing the EAC Rules of Origin (2015) to align with the Tripartite Free Trade Area (TFTA) and AfCFTA frameworks.
- Ensuring uniform application of the EAC Common External Tariff (CET) 2022 version.
- Operationalizing the EAC Trade Remedies Committee to provide solutions for trade disputes.
- Fast-tracking the harmonization of product standards across the region.
- Increasing the uptake of the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Scheme to facilitate smoother customs procedures.
- Progress towards the liberalization of trade in services.
- Enhancing the movement of workers and liberalization of professional services across member states.
The Senate Liaison Committee praised EABC’s ongoing advocacy efforts and committed to encouraging Partner States to implement the use of national IDs for cross-border travel, promoting the free movement of people within the EAC.
This meeting reflects a shared commitment to fostering a more integrated and competitive East African market that can effectively respond to regional and global trade demands.
