A one-day workshop was held in Douala on October 23, 2026, to educate Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Central Africa on how to overcome trade barriers, reduce transport costs, and take advantage of opportunities offered by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The workshop was organized under the Regional Integration and Investment Support Programme in Central Africa (PAIRIAC), with funding from the European Union and initiated by the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) and the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC).
The workshop aimed to strengthen regional economic integration, improve business competitiveness, and encourage investment. Expert number 2 of the PAIRIAC Management Unit, Pierre Bidé, highlighted the importance of reporting non-tariff barriers affecting businesses along regional trade corridors. He identified discriminatory practices, unofficial checkpoints, administrative delays, and other irregularities as major obstacles preventing businesses from accessing markets.
Pierre Bidé urged SMEs to document incidents before filing complaints, stressing that effective reporting requires evidence of the impact on business activities, including declining turnover, loss of customers, additional expenses, and difficulties accessing markets. He also disclosed that two reporting platforms, including the continental mechanism and the regional platform supported under the programme, are available to help traders and transporters report irregularities.
The information submitted through these platforms enables the relevant authorities to investigate complaints, address abuses, and improve trade procedures. Confidentiality is also essential to protect complainants against possible reprisals. The establishment of one-stop border posts is also crucial in facilitating trade and reducing bureaucratic hurdles.
The PAIRIAC programme is designed to support the implementation of the AfCFTA, which aims to create a single, unified African market. By educating SMEs on how to navigate trade barriers and leverage opportunities offered by the AfCFTA, the programme seeks to promote economic growth and development in Central Africa.
The workshop provided a platform for SMEs to interact with experts and share experiences on overcoming trade barriers. Participants were also equipped with practical tools and knowledge on how to access markets and compete effectively in the regional economy.
The PAIRIAC programme is a collaborative effort between the European Union, ECCAS, and CEMAC to promote regional economic integration and investment in Central Africa. By supporting the development of SMEs and improving trade procedures, the programme aims to contribute to the economic growth and development of the region.
Key points
- SMEs in Central Africa are being educated on how to overcome trade barriers and leverage opportunities offered by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
