ECOWAS launches electronic certificate of origin to stimulate $4trn AfCTA trade

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), has launched an electronic certificate of origin for the seamless movement of goods among member states.

The electronic certificate, when it becomes fully operational, is expected to stimulate the anticipated $4 trillion trade, which the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCTA) is expected to create for African countries.

AfCFTA is expected to create the largest free trade area in the world measured by the number of countries participating and the pact will connect 1.3 billion people across 55 countries with a combined gross domestic product (GDP) valued at US$3.4 trillion.

Currently, the launch of the electronic certificate of origin will be used in four pilot countries which includes Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, and Cote Ivories. Later it will be extended to the 15 member countries.

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Speaking at the official launch of the E-certificate in Lagos on Monday, Massandje Toure-Litse, commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture at ECOWAS, explained that its usage will eliminate delays and fraud occasioned by human interface and facilitate trade through the exchange of documents as customs administration will be interconnected.

Represented by Salifou Tiemtore, Director of Customs Union and Taxation at ECOWAS, she said ECOWAS is the first region in Africa to automate its certificate of origin and the move will set an example for other areas of the continent.

Also speaking, Bernard Tayoh, Head of the Program at GIZ, ECOWAS-AfCFTA, said the launch of the electronic Certificate of Origin will lead to regional economic integration and benefits to member states, businesses and citizens.