Trade Facilitation Task Force formed

A TRADE FACILITATION TASK FORCE, aimed at increasing efficiency and competitiveness with respect to local and international trade issues, has embarked on a 2010 work programme.{{more}}

The establishment of a Trade Facilitation Task Force was mandated by the World Trade Organisation, following a needs assessment in the OECS countries, conducted by the W.T.O., UNCTAD and other international agencies.

The needs assessment report which was made available last year, recommended a number of trade facilitation reforms that would simplify and harmonise international trade procedures among the member states of the O.E.C.S.

The Task Force is co-chaired by the Trade Department in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Commerce and Trade and the Customs and Excise Department, and includes a number of stakeholders in both the public and private sectors, and will now be meeting on a monthly basis.

At a meeting this morning, the Task Force was completing its work plan for 2010.