Study on the identification of barriers and obstacles to intra-african trade, and the measures enabling them to be eliminated : Phase I

Abstract

The present study is scheduled as part of the implementation of the UNDP project (RAF/73/029/A/01/40) on the development of intra-African trade.

The aim of the project is to help African countries to implement an integrated programme with regard to the promotion of trade and trade policies aimed at expanding intra-African trade.

The study was authorized by resolution 262 (XIl) of the Commission and scheduled under item 9,342.06 of the work programme according to order of priority (Document E/CN.14/TECO/34)-

The considerable extent of barriers and obstacles to intra-African trade is now felt by all the countries of Africa. The existence of special economic relationships between African countries and the world outside, and especially between African countries and the former colonial powers, constitutes a sizeable obstacle to the development of intra- African trade.

Nor does the fact that the varir.ua countries have adopted different politico-econor.iic systems r.nke it any easier to promote trade between them. Current trade channels proliferate the points at which interventions occur, create an imbalance in negotiating powers and thereby limit the success and materialization of intra—African trade.