The African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA) has created Customs Directorate to fight trans-shipment of goods into the continent.
The Secretary General of AFCFTA, Mr Wamkele Mene, made the report at the ongoing Lagos International Trade Fair Special African day, with the theme “Boosting intra-African Trade’’.
He explained that trans-shipment may never be eliminated completely, but “we can indeed make it difficult for it to happen by diligently enforcing rules of origin that we all agree to.
“Fighting trans-shipment is my main priority. AfCFTA must not lead to job losses.”
He noted that the Lagos Chamber has a lot to offer and called for involvement of the private sector for the success of the implementation of the intra African trade and to represent its interest.
He explained that the Chamber has a lot to offer in the implementation of the AFCFTA, he noted that small entrepreneurs are the drivers of transit of goods and services, they are the drivers of the implementation of the intra African trade, and so should not be under estimated.
On her part, president of the chamber, this year’s edition of the Africa Day celebration, with the theme: “Boosting Intra-African Trade”, is specifically designed to showcase Africa’s potential in natural resource endowment, rich culture, large market, and promote innovations in goods, services, science, and technology.
“We believe that Intra-African trade, networking, capacity building, and technology transfer are critical to facilitating the integration of African economies.”