ECOWAS launches digital certificate of origin to boost regional trade

• ECOWAS launches the digital Certificate of Origin to boost regional trade and align with AfCFTA goals
• The electronic certificate allows seamless, real-time trade transactions, eliminating fraud and document forgery
• The initiative strengthens the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme (ETLS) and promotes economic growth and sustainability

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has introduced the electronic Certificate of Origin in Lagos, marking a significant step toward enhancing regional trade.

This groundbreaking initiative aligns with the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), which is to simplify and accelerate cross-border trade across Africa.

Speaking at the launch, Mr Salifou Tiemtore, ECOWAS Director of Customs Union and Taxation, emphasised the importance of innovation and described it as a landmark achievement for the region.

He highlighted that the digital Certificate of Origin would enable seamless, real-time trade transactions while addressing challenges such as fraud and forgery.

“Today, it is possible for one country to send trade documentation to another digitally, with the destination country receiving it through an electronic system,” Tiemtore explained.

This advancement eliminates fraud, ensures authenticity, and streamlines trade processes.

Mr. Tiemtore also noted that West Africa often serves as a testing ground for continental policies, with successful regional initiatives paving the way for broader adoption across Africa.

Four ECOWAS member states will pilot the platform during the initial phase before full-scale implementation begins.

Promoting transparency and efficiency

Mr. Nafiu Isiyaku, Comptroller of Customs in charge of Trade Facilitation at the Nigeria Customs Service, underscored the benefits of digitalisation in trade processes.

He explained that automating documentation promotes transparency, accelerates clearance procedures, and eliminates ambiguities.

“The previous reliance on hard copy trade documents caused delays and created opportunities for forgery,” Isiyaku said. “This digital transformation ensures the legitimacy of trade, fostering trust among all stakeholders.”

A step toward regional integration

In his keynote address, Mr Bernard Tayoh, Head of the Support Program to the ECOWAS Commission for AfCFTA implementation, described the launch as a major milestone for regional economic integration.

Mr Tayoh noted that the electronic Certificate of Origin would enhance trade efficiency, foster economic growth, and benefit businesses and citizens across member states.

“This innovation not only strengthens the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS) but also promotes environmental sustainability,” Tayoh said. “It is a significant step in determining the origin of goods by border agencies and enhancing member states' competitiveness.”

Mr Tayoh emphasised the need for robust information campaigns to ensure the successful rollout of the digital Certificate of Origin. He highlighted additional benefits of trade facilitation initiatives, including regional transit guarantees, improved security, and support for AfCFTA strategies.

“This achievement demonstrates our shared commitment to regional integration and economic progress,” he said, expressing optimism about the continued partnership among ECOWAS member states.

The introduction of the digital Certificate of Origin signals a new chapter in West Africa’s journey toward seamless trade and economic collaboration. By leveraging technology to simplify processes and ensure transparency, ECOWAS sets the stage for a more integrated and prosperous region.

FG, Morocco, ECOWAS drive $26bn African gas pipeline initiative

Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the Federal Government of Nigeria, in collaboration with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Morocco, and Mauritania, reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline (AAGP) project, a transformative initiative estimated to cost $26 billion.

The project aims to connect at least 13 countries and enhance regional economic growth.