Second revised proposed treaty for the establishment of a preferential trade area for eastern and southern African states: with a foreword containing outstanding issues by the executive secretary of the united nations economic commission for Africa

Abstract

The document presents the Second Revised Proposed Treaty for the Establishment of a Preferential Trade Area (PTA) for Eastern and Southern African States, prepared for the Third Extraordinary Conference of Ministers of Trade, Finance, and Planning in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in October 1981. The treaty aims to foster economic cooperation and trade liberalization among member states, with the ultimate goal of creating a common market and economic community. The document outlines the historical context, including the Lusaka Declaration of Intent and Commitment (1978), and details the extensive negotiations conducted by the Intergovernmental Negotiating Team over eight meetings. Key issues addressed include trade liberalization, rules of origin, customs cooperation, transport, and payments arrangements. Several unresolved issues, such as the establishment of a subregional Development Bank and specific trade protocols, are highlighted, with recommendations for further discussions and decisions by the ministers and heads of state. The treaty represents a significant step towards regional economic integration in Eastern and Southern Africa.