Inconsistency in the East African region has resulted in talks around regulation in the trade and service industry.

Earlier this week, Valentine Rugwabiza, minister of East African Community, discussed trade and policies in the region.

One of the issues was access to customs systems between Rwanda and Kenya. Rwandan agents did not have access to Kenyan customs systems. While Kenyan agents had access to Rwandan customs systems.

“The decision has made is that only 86 Rwanda agents have been nominated to clear cargo destined to Kenya and other transit cargo. The Rwanda regulatory authority will send their names to the Kenya Revenue Authority to have their bounds activated,” she said.

There was also the consideration of Rwanda opening up a revolving account with shipping line authorities for easier business at sea ports.

Rugwabiza also tackled the complaint that Rwandan truck drivers were being charged a road toll of 300 dollars, per truck, when crossing the Tanzania National Park. While Tanzanian trucks were only charged 40 dollars top cross the same road.

“At the EAC level, on no tariff measures, we will raise this issue with the aim of having it either brought at 40 dollars as what is imposed to Tanzania and just the same treatment for east African businesses or remove it all together. But what we are aiming for here is just to have a level playing field,” added Rugwabiza.

Source: CNBCAFRICA.COM

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