COMESA Trade Talks Open in Nairobi
COMESA Trade Talks Open in Nairobi
Officials Push for Stronger Intra-Africa Trade Ties
Customs Reforms, Climate-Resilient Value Chains Top the Agenda
The 41st Meeting of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Trade and Customs Committee has officially opened in Nairobi.
The four-day session brings together senior trade officials, customs experts, and regional stakeholders to boost trade integration across the continent.
Speaking on behalf of Principal Secretary for Trade Regina Ombam, Deputy Director Alex Tomerang welcomed delegates. He emphasized Kenya’s commitment to COMESA’s vision of a united, prosperous region powered by seamless trade.
“This committee plays a pivotal role in harmonizing customs procedures, dismantling trade barriers, and enhancing the competitiveness of our economies,” read Ombam’s message.
The meeting comes amid mounting global supply chain disruptions. As a result, COMESA is accelerating efforts to strengthen internal trade and develop regional value chains in agriculture, mining, and tourism.
These sectors are seen as vital for economic resilience and climate adaptation.
COMESA Trade Talks Open in Nairobi
Trade Barriers, Digital Tools, and the Road Ahead
COMESA Assistant Secretary General Dr. Christopher Onyango urged member states to act decisively. He noted that intra-COMESA trade remains below 10 percent of total exportsfar short of the 25 percent target set in the bloc’s 2021–2025 strategy.
“Our region could redirect up to $100 billion in external trade back into local markets if we act boldly,” Onyango said.
He highlighted progress in adopting flexible rules of origin and digital tools that help resolve non-tariff barriers.
He also pointed to efforts to formalize small-scale cross-border trade. However, he urged non-participating members to join the COMESA Free Trade Area to unlock full integration benefits.
During the week, delegates will review several key reports, including:
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Outcomes from the COMESA–WTO capacity-building workshop on trade in services
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Updates from the trade facilitation and customs sub-committees
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A review of rules of origin to align with global trade practices
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Proposals for digitizing customs instruments, such as the e-Certificate of Origin
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A draft strategy to align COMESA with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)
Held under the theme “Accelerating Regional Integration through the Development of Regional Value Chains in Climate Resilient Agriculture, Mining, and Tourism,” the meeting sets the stage for key policy recommendations later this year.
“Let us use this platform to develop strategies that empower traders, attract investments, and build resilient supply chains,” said Tomerang.
The meeting continues through July 25. Its outcomes will help shape COMESA’s 2026–2030 strategic roadmap.
