East African Community (EAC) member states have agreed to speed up the removal of non-tariff barriers (NTBs) that continue to hinder the movement of goods and limit business opportunities across the regional market.
The commitment was reached at the 49th Sectoral Council of Ministers responsible for Trade, Industry, Finance and Investment (SCTIFI), which concluded in Arusha on November 13, 2026, after five days of discussions involving experts, permanent secretaries and ministers.
The agreement puts renewed focus on obstacles that increase the time and cost of doing business across borders, with implications for traders, manufacturers, investors and consumers.
Member states agreed to strengthen consultations and accelerate action on identified NTBs, which could delay the implementation of decisions made by EAC Heads of State during their 25th Summit.
The ministers also emphasised the need to implement agreed regional policies and measures within set timelines to improve cross-border trade, streamline border procedures and create a more predictable business environment.
For businesses operating across the region, reducing such barriers could mean fewer administrative delays, more efficient movement of goods and improved access to markets in other EAC partner states.
The ministers reviewed reports and recommendations submitted by permanent secretaries, focusing on policies and frameworks covering trade, industrial development, finance and investment.
Several recommendations were adopted to strengthen economic cooperation and improve the operating environment for businesses and investors across the bloc.
Tanzania's delegation was led by Deputy Minister for Finance Mshamu Munde, accompanied by Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation James Millya.
Other members included Charles Kadonya, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation responsible for East African affairs, and Dr Fred Msemwa, Permanent Secretary for Investment in the President's Office, Planning and Investment, alongside officials from various government ministries and institutions.
The adopted recommendations are expected to support industrial production, expand trade and investment opportunities and stimulate economic activity among member states.
However, their impact will depend on how quickly partner states translate the agreements into action, particularly in addressing barriers that businesses encounter when moving goods across national borders.
The Arusha meeting concluded a five-day process of deliberations at expert, permanent secretary and ministerial levels, laying the groundwork for further measures to strengthen economic integration within the EAC.