COVID-19 remains an impediment to regional trade; Kenya pushes ahead

Abstract

At a time when global trade seems so uncertain because of COVID-19 pandemic crisis, a recent paper strikingly highlights that Kenya experienced a significant improvement in exports in early months of 2020 together with the moderation of imports, leading to a marked decline in the trade deficit. The paper stresses that the urgency of implementing the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) is even more palpable. Its rapid implementation, accompanied by additional trade facilitation measures, could significantly mitigate COVID-19's negative impact on the continent’s economy. The paper also praised Kenya and Rwanda’s strategies to retool its passenger aircraft for cargo. Rwandair cargo (imports and exports) increased from $57 million in April to $134 million by May 2020. The paper also calls for policymakers to implement safety measures such as controls and surveillance on trade in a way that does not unduly affect the flow of trade. Challenges to the recognition of COVID-19 certificates for truck drivers should also be addressed, aiming at speeding up port and border clearance procedures in East Africa.