Sweden offers trade facilitation training in Africa

   Sweden announced Dec. 3 the launch of a new trade facilitation training facility in Arusha, Tanzania.
   The Swedish government, through its development agency Sida, will provide an initial grant of about $1.6 million per year for 2014-2015.
   The World Trade Organization, the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the World Bank and the International Trade Center (ITC) will participate in the development of the facility and its new training programs. Sweden and Tanzania also welcome other donors and relevant agencies to collaborate with the training facility.
   The training activities will support participating countries in implementing a future WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, which aims to reduce bottlenecks and improve procedures for the flow of goods across borders. The facility will also provide a platform for African government officials and customs officers to exchange experiences.
   “The Trade Facilitation Agreement represents huge potential gains for developing countries. The facility will help African countries unlock this potential and is yet another confirmation of Sweden’s commitment to aid for trade,” said Swedish Minister for Trade Ewa Björling in a statement.