Policy implementation gap undermining West African trade integration- GSA

The Ghana Shippers Authority (GSA) has expressed concern that the disparity between regional trade policy promises and their practical execution is hindering economic integration and cross-border trade within West Africa. Silvia Asana Dauda Owu, Deputy Chief Executive of the Authority, pointed out that businesses across the region still encounter numerous obstacles such as lengthy inspections, complex paperwork, disparate rules, and unofficial fees, despite governments' pledges to streamline trade.

Owu believes these issues are escalating business expenses and diminishing the competitiveness of regional economies. She made these statements at the re-launch of the Borderless Alliance, a regional initiative aimed at enhancing trade facilitation, encouraging evidence-based advocacy, and advancing economic integration across West Africa.

"Let us shift our focus from discussions on regional integration to actionable steps. The future of regional trade depends not just on what policies we announce, but even more crucially, on our dedication to implementing them," Owu stated. Efua Eshun, acting Executive Director of the Borderless Alliance Secretariat, affirmed that the Alliance would persist in advocating for the unhindered flow of goods and individuals throughout the region.

The re-launch is anticipated to enhance the organization's standing as a robust platform for engaging governments and other stakeholders regarding policies and interventions required to tackle ongoing hindrances to regional trade. During the event, participants were briefed on the newly launched National Non-Tariff Barriers Reporting and Resolution Platform.

This digital platform is anticipated to enhance the identification, documentation, and resolution of non-tariff barriers that impede cross-border trade, including burdensome administrative procedures and regulatory challenges. The re-launch was held under the theme, "Pioneering Digital Trade Facilitation and Regional Integration," emphasizing the role of digital solutions in enhancing trade procedures and fortifying regional cooperation.