The Trade Facilitation Agreement: What does it mean for LDCs?

In 2017, the global trading system achieved a major milestone when the first multilateral deal entered into force in the 21-year history of the World Trade Organization – the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). The TFA is expected to reduce the time needed to import goods and to help new firms export for the first time. According to the WTO World Trade Report 2015, LDCs are likely to see an increase of up to 35% once the TFA is implemented. So far, 21 LDCs in Africa, Asia, and the Pacific have signed the TFA and are working towards implementation.

This session brought together LDCs and trade facilitation experts to reflect on the necessary conditions to ensure the agreement's implementation and success, including technical assistance and capacity development support.

Moderator:

• Sheri Rosenow, Counsellor, World Trade Organization (WTO)

Speakers:

• Lillian Bwalya, Director of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Zambia
• Yann Duval, Chief, Trade Policy and Facilitation Section, United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP)
• Richard Kamajugo, Senior Director Trade Environment, TradeMark East Africa
• Steven Pope, Vice President Customs and Regulatory Affairs Europe, DHL

Presentation:

• Carlos Grau, Tanner Director General, Global Express Association

The Global Forum on Inclusive Trade for LDCs would not have been possible without the financial support of the EIF Trust Fund Donors and additional Forum sponsors, including International Islamic Tade Finance Corporation, Trade Facilitation Agreement Facility and German Development Cooperation.