AES/Togo: customs cooperation between these countries is being consolidated
The member states of the Sahel States Alliance (AES) are enhancing their customs cooperation with neighbouring Togo.
Leaders from these countries have expressed their commitment to significant reforms in the customs sector, a key economic driver, to facilitate the transit of goods and boost commercial exchanges.
A major focus of these reforms is the interconnection of their IT systems.
Togo, serving as a critical gateway for goods to the landlocked AES countries, has consistently upheld the right of these nations to transit their goods through the Port of Lomé.
This cooperation persisted even when other ECOWAS member states opted to close their borders and ports to these nations.
During a meeting of AES customs directors in Niamey, where Togo was the guest of honor, several encouraging and concrete decisions were made to actualize the ambition of interconnecting the customs IT systems among the four partner countries.
This initiative aims to digitize procedures, with a target implementation date set for November 15.
Once implemented, this interconnection will enable better coordination of transit operations and the movement of goods from departure to arrival points, ensuring rapid information sharing between customs offices.
This effort aims to secure goods, reduce border wait times, and lower transit costs.
Additionally, it seeks to optimize cross-border trade, boosting the economies of these countries for the benefit of their citizens.
The reform is also seen as a critical step in eliminating customs fraud and illicit trafficking, which harm the economy.
By strengthening these systems, the AES countries and Togo aim to create a more secure and efficient trade environment, promoting economic growth and stability in the region.
Fayçal BADIE
