Ibrahima Nour Eddine Diagne, a renowned Senegalese expert in trade facilitation and digital transformation, has been elected as the president of the United Nations Centre for Trade Facilitation and Electronic Business (UN/CEFACT) for the 2026-2029 term. This election took place during the 32nd plenary session held in Geneva. Diagne's election marks a significant milestone for Senegal, showcasing the country's expertise in trade facilitation, digital transformation, and international trade.
With over 20 years of experience in digitalizing commercial procedures, single windows, customs modernization, and interconnecting systems, Diagne is well-equipped to lead UN/CEFACT. His commitment to the organization dates back to 2006 when he served as the Rapporteur for Africa for over a decade. Additionally, he has held various international positions, including president of the African Alliance for E-Commerce from 2009 to 2017 and vice-president of the Pan Asian Alliance for e-Commerce since 2024.
In Senegal, Diagne has made significant contributions, particularly as the head of GAINDE 2000, where he developed digital solutions for trade facilitation. His extensive experience and expertise in the field have earned him recognition, and his candidacy was supported by Senegal's diplomatic network and approved by President Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye on April 14, 2026.
During his presidency, Diagne aims to strengthen UN/CEFACT's role in shaping global trade. His priorities include promoting the adoption of international standards, enhancing system interoperability, and encouraging the participation of developing countries in the organization's work. He also seeks to foster cooperation between the public and private sectors, promoting more inclusive, transparent, and sustainable trade.
Established in 1996, UN/CEFACT is a key player in international trade, operating under the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE). The organization develops standards, recommendations, and tools to simplify and harmonize commercial procedures. Its work includes the UN/EDIFACT standard for electronic data interchange, international port and airport codes (UN/LOCODE), and guidelines for establishing single windows for foreign trade.
As president of UN/CEFACT, Diagne will lead an organization that brings together over 200 experts from the public and private sectors, representing 193 UN member states. The organization's goal is to facilitate simpler, more transparent, efficient, and interoperable trade. Diagne's election highlights Senegal's growing influence in international trade and digital transformation.
The recognition of Diagne's expertise and Senegal's capabilities in trade facilitation and digital transformation opens new avenues for the country's participation in global trade discussions and initiatives. This development is expected to enhance Senegal's visibility and contribution to shaping the future of international trade.
Key points
- Ibrahima Nour Eddine Diagne elected as president of UN/CEFACT for 2026-2029 term
- Diagne aims to strengthen UN/CEFACT's role in global trade, focusing on international standards, interoperability, and inclusivity
- UN/CEFACT develops standards and tools to simplify and harmonize commercial procedures, facilitating global trade
