The barriers

The present situation in which countries of the region restrict their imports from other countries of the region is more of a by-product of their general import control system than the result of a conscious effort to keep regional goods out of their markets. General speaking, these countries have made no great efforts to take into consideration the interests of other countries of the region when framing their import regulations. On the contrary, since many of the products made by countries of the region are not considered essential to their development programmes, there has been no incentive for governments deliberately to favour regional suppliers. This has led to a general apathy among the countries of the region towards the potential of intra-regional trade.

Sustainable Development Goals:

Decent Work and Economic Growth

Reduced Inequalities