EAC Unveils Single Customs Territory Platform For Customs And Port Data Exchange To Ease Trade
Single customs concentrated platforms, used to share information between the income management department of EAC, promote the exchange of customs data in the partner country, and reduce the commodity flow in the region
The East African Community (EAC) Secretariat has launched an improved single customs territory (SCT) centralized platform that aims to promote the seamless exchange of customs and trade data of the customs and port authorities of interconnected partners. The unveiling ceremony was conducted at the headquarters of the EAC Secretariat of Arussa, Tanzania, and consistent with the celebration of the celebration of the International Customs Day. The theme is “customs, dedication to its commitment to efficiency, safety and prosperity.”
EAC Secretary -General He Veronica NDUVA hosted the launch, and he emphasized the importance of the platform in promoting regional integration and deepening trade.
“A single customs territory was established in 2014. It is simplified, automated, and accelerated the flow of the entire EAC cargo. The centralized platform is a key component of the SCT framework. By achieving real -time sharing of customs information, the platform expands regional efforts in order to cope with Such as delayed attention, non -propaganda obstacles, high transaction costs, and low cross -border trade efficiency challenges ”
Since its initial implementation in 2017, the concentrated platforms have continued to develop over the years. The initial version supports trading -related transactions in region, from the region to the export of global markets, transportation products and issuing original certificates. In 2023, the platform was upgraded to its second edition and combined with maritime trade (previously relying on bilateral comprehensive models), the model and regional authorized economic operator (AEO) and regional liquidation agents at the same time and mutual recognition.
On the basis of these progress, with the support of the British and Netherlands government, in 2024, the scanner image sharing between partnerships was seen from Kenya and Uganda. This increases the transparency and efficiency in the customs process, and further consolidates the role of the platform in simplifying the trade throughout the region.
The Secretary -General also mentioned other SCT programs implemented with various partners over the years, which significantly improved the trade environment and enhanced regional economic integration.
“We have worked closely with partner countries, developing partners and trade promotion agencies (such as African trademarks) to achieve these income. Except for centralized platforms, other initiatives are across the field of physical infrastructure and digital trade. The time and cost of the border trade have positively impact. 274 non -television barriers (NTB). EAC also developed and operated NTB applications to simplify NTB reports. The comprehensive and real -time monitoring of the transportation cargo reduces the transfer of goods, minimizes transit delay and enhances the safety of cargo. “
Since 2010, African trademarks and EAC have maintained long -term partnerships and supported East Africa trade reform through digital and automated trade promotion agencies.
These intervention measures implemented in cooperation with state and non -state actors include rectangular and trade information portals.
“The process of promoting the key customs and trade promotion through automation, including these intervention measures, including centralized platforms, can ensure that the goods are faster and more effective, especially for traders who comply with compliance. Reduce delays, improve transparency, and support the stable movement of goods in the entire region, and ultimately benefit ordinary East African citizens.
At present, the customs systems of Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi are interconnected through centralized platforms. Kenya and Tanzania port authorities are also connected to the platform. It plans to integrate other key institutions involved in the removal of other partner countries and participating in the clearing of goods into the platform.
