Ministers from East African Community (EAC) have endorsed a raft of reforms aimed at speeding up cargo clearance, strengthening action against non-tariff barriers and updating trade rules governing regional products. The decisions intended to boost intra-regional trade and industrialisation were adopted during the 48th Meeting of the Sectoral Council on Trade, Industry, Finance and Investment (SCTIFI), which concluded in Arusha, Tanzania, on June 7. ALSO READ: EAC pushes five-point plan to ease cross-border trade The ministers also endorsed preparatory work towards a possible free trade agreement between the EAC and Singapore, reflecting growing international interest in economic partnerships with the regional bloc. Faster customs clearance Among the key outcomes of the meeting was the endorsement of Time Release Studies for the Northern and Central Corridors, which assess the time taken to clear cargo and identify opportunities to simplify customs procedures. ALSO READ: Kagame, EAC boss discuss regional trade, integration The studies found that increased collaboration among customs authorities, border agencies and private sector players has improved the efficiency of regional supply chains, although further reforms are needed to reduce delays and costs. The council also adopted a framework for monitoring implementation of the EAC Customs Union Protocol and approved measures to integrate South Sudan into regional customs data-sharing systems. Tougher action on trade barriers Ministers renewed their commitment to eliminate non-tariff barriers that continue to disrupt the free movement of goods across the region. ALSO READ: Addressing non-tariff barriers key to accelerating intra-EAC trade - experts The council considered proposals to strengthen the legal framework governing the removal of such barriers, including possible sanctions and compensation mechanisms for traders affected by illegal taxes and unauthorised trade restrictions. The proposals will undergo further technical and legal review before being considered through the EAC's formal decision-making processes. New rules to support industrialisation The meeting also approved a comprehensive review of the EAC Rules of Origin 2015, which determine whether products qualify for preferential tariff treatment within the bloc. The revised rules are expected to support regional manufacturing and value addition by providing a more updated framework for goods traded within the nine-member bloc. Legal review of the amendments is ongoing ahead of implementation. Singapore trade deal on the table The council noted growing interest from countries seeking formal trade arrangements with the EAC and endorsed continued engagement with Singapore, which has formally proposed negotiations for a free trade agreement with the bloc. Ministers directed the EAC Secretariat to begin technical preparations for possible negotiations while ensuring that any future agreement reflects the collective interests of partner states and remains consistent with existing and planned trade arrangements. Fiscal measures adopted The council also endorsed fiscal measures agreed during the 2026/27 pre-budget consultations of finance ministers under the Common External Tariff framework. The measures are expected to take effect on July 1. EAC Secretary General Stephen Mbundi said the region was facing increasing trade uncertainties arising from global geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions and growing protectionism. To cushion the region against these shocks, he called for a stronger internal market, a reduced cost of doing business, and faster implementation of regional integration commitments, including the resolution of all outstanding Non-Tariff Barriers. The ministers said effective implementation of the decisions adopted, alongside continued cooperation among partner states, would be critical to advancing the EAC's goal of a competitive and fully integrated regional economy.
