The East African Community (EAC) Secretariat has officially launched the upgraded Single Customs Territory (SCT) Centralised Platform, a vital tool aimed at enhancing the exchange of customs and trade data among Partner States’ Customs and Ports Authorities. The unveiling ceremony, held at the EAC Secretariat Headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania, coincided with the International Customs Day celebration under the theme “Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity.”
H.E. Veronica Nduva, the EAC Secretary General, presided over the launch and emphasized the platform’s significance in promoting regional integration and bolstering trade facilitation efforts. The Single Customs Territory was established in 2014 to streamline the movement of goods across the EAC, with the Centralised Platform playing a crucial role in facilitating real-time sharing of customs information. This initiative aims to address challenges such as customs clearance delays, non-tariff barriers, and high transaction costs that hinder efficient cross-border trade.
Over the years, the Centralised Platform has undergone several upgrades to enhance its functionality. The initial versions supported transactions related to intra-regional trade, exports to global markets, transit goods, and certificate of origin issuance. In 2023, the platform was upgraded to its second version, incorporating maritime trade and features for managing Regional Authorised Economic Operators (AEO) and regional clearing agents for mutual recognition.
In 2024, with the support of the UK and Netherlands governments, the platform introduced scanner image sharing between Partner States, starting with Kenya and Uganda. This addition enhances transparency and efficiency in customs processes, further streamlining trade activities within the region.
The Secretary General also acknowledged the various initiatives implemented under the SCT framework with the support of partners like TradeMark Africa. These initiatives have led to significant improvements in the trade environment, contributing to enhanced regional economic integration. For instance, the establishment of One-Stop Border Posts (OSBPs) has significantly reduced border crossing times and generated substantial annual savings. Additionally, the resolution of Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs) and the operationalization of the NTB App have simplified reporting mechanisms for traders.
TradeMark Africa has been a key partner in supporting East African trade reforms through digitalization and automation of trade facilitation agencies. Interventions such as the Regional Electronic Cargo Tracking System (RECTS) and Trade Information Portals have played a crucial role in automating customs and trade processes, ensuring faster and more efficient clearance of goods for compliant traders.
Currently, the customs systems of Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi are interconnected through the Centralised Platform. Plans are underway to integrate other Partner States and key agencies involved in goods clearance into the platform, further enhancing trade facilitation efforts within the EAC.
