Somalia’s National Trade Facilitation Committee says regional market access will remain out of reach unless customs, border procedures and regulatory reforms accelerate
Wararka Soomaaliya
MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somalia has stepped up efforts to overhaul its trade and customs system as government officials, regional lawmakers, business leaders and international development partners warned that the country’s membership in the East African Community (EAC) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) will yield limited economic gains without urgent implementation of long-delayed trade reforms.
The National Trade Facilitation Committee (NTFC) convened in Mogadishu for a high-level strategy and planning meeting aimed at identifying practical measures to reduce trade costs, improve border efficiency and position Somali businesses to compete in regional and continental markets.
The discussions reflected a growing recognition that Somalia’s integration into Africa’s largest trading blocs represents only the first step. Translating those memberships into increased exports, investment and economic growth will depend on modernising customs administration, removing regulatory bottlenecks and strengthening coordination among government agencies.
Faahfaahinta
Trade agreements create opportunity and pressure
Opening the meeting, Ibrahim Ahmed Osman, Director General at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, described Somalia’s accession to the AfCFTA as a landmark milestone that expands opportunities for trade, investment and economic integration across Africa.
He said the ministry is prioritising reforms designed to simplify cross-border trade, strengthen institutional coordination and improve the competitiveness of Somali businesses.
Saamaynta
According to Osman, efficient trade facilitation will be critical to enabling Somali exporters to access larger markets while creating a more predictable environment for domestic and foreign investors.
EAC membership demands legal and regulatory alignment
Addressing the committee, Rutazana Francine, a Member of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), urged Somalia to accelerate the harmonisation of its trade legislation with EAC standards.
Wararka.so waxay kuu soo tebineysaa wararka ugu dambeeyey ee Soomaaliya iyo caalamka. Si aad ula socoto wararkii ugu dambeeyey, booqo boggayaga.
