Measuring the performance of one-stop border posts in the East African Community through an online platform
The East African Community (EAC) recently announced the launch of an online platform to measure the performance of One Stop Border Posts (UPPs) in the region. Presented at the African Union High Level Private Sector Forum, this measurement tool aims to make informed decisions to improve the effectiveness of existing PFUs.
Thanks to real-time data collection and digitization of processes, this platform will make it possible to evaluate the performance of PFUs according to six essential criteria: time, cost, volume/flow, infrastructure, inter- agencies and user satisfaction. This information will provide an accurate overview of the current state of border crossings and help identify areas requiring improvement.
Developed with support from USAID through Trade Mark Africa (TMA), this measurement tool represents a significant investment in the development of PFUs. Alban Odhiambo, TradeMark Africa’s Senior Director for Business Environment, stresses the importance of getting the most out of these infrastructures through regular monitoring and constant improvements. By reducing the costs of doing business in the region, this will help improve trade facilitation and the business environment.
The EAC is implementing several measures to improve the performance of UTPs, including the establishment of a Single Customs Territory and an Authorized Economic Operator scheme. These initiatives aim to facilitate trade and stimulate regional economic development.
In conclusion, the commissioning of this EAC One Stop Border Post performance measurement platform is a significant step forward in trade facilitation in the region. By allowing an accurate assessment of existing PFUs, this tool will contribute to improving the efficiency and optimization of trade within the East African Community