The Burundi Trade Information Portal (TIP) has recently been upgraded as part of the broader EU-EAC MARKUP II initiative, which aims to boost intra-African and EU-Africa trade by improving market access and enhancing SME competitiveness.
What’s new?
The upgraded portal now offers updated, user-friendly, and institution-certified trade procedures, enabling businesses to independently and efficiently access the information they need. Easy access to accurate trade data will strengthen the competitiveness of traders and support deeper integration at both the regional and continental levels.
Building capacity to maximize benefits
A workshop was held targeting business stakeholders and policymakers to enhance understanding and raise awareness about the features and benefits of the Trade Information Portals among businesses, stakeholders, and policymakers.
The training gathered 62 participants, including 14 women and 19 youth, representing priority value chains such as coffee, tea, avocado, and essential oils. Key institutions including the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism, Burundi Bureau of Standards (BBN), Burundi Revenue Authority (OBR), and the East African Business Council (EABC) attended.
The training helped support participants in using the portals to meet national and regional trade regulations effectively and equip them with the skills needed to navigate and utilize the portals confidently.
TIP is a key component of Burundi’s customs modernization and trade facilitation agenda. It directly addresses one of the biggest challenges faced by economic operators: the lack of access to reliable trade information. In the long run, providing free, real-time, and transparent access to trade procedures reduces unpredictable costs, limits corruption risks, and boosts public revenues.
