Issue: The export of coffee from EAC is constrained by procedural costs, complex administrative procedures, and regulatory inefficiencies, which continue to pose challenges for exporters. In some cases, exporters report spending up to 30 days completing export formalities, while countries with more efficient procedures can do this in less than a week. On average, coffee exporters in the EAC must comply with at least 7 to 10 different regulatory requirements, leading to delays and increased costs.

Panellists included: Kenya Trade Network Agency (Kentrade), Tanzania Trade Development Authority (TANTRADE), Tanzania Coffee Association (TCA), EAC Secretariat

Outcome of discussion: The panellists delved into the obstacles and challenges specific to coffee export procedures across the EAC region, identifying persistent bottlenecks that hinder efficiency. The discussion emphasized the need for simplification and digitalization of export processes to enhance competitiveness. Successful cases of coffee export simplification from Kenya and Rwanda were highlighted, offering valuable lessons for other EAC Partner States. The role of public-private dialogues (PPD) and the National Trade Facilitation Committees (NTFCs) was explored, focusing on mechanisms to translate these dialogues into concrete policy and procedural changes. At the regional level, the current framework guiding simplification reforms within the EAC was reviewed, with a particular focus on the SCTIFI guidelines. Looking forward, the private sector's perspective on impactful reforms was discussed, along with strategies to translate recommendations into action.

Stakeholders highlighted the importance of continued engagement with all relevant parties to simplify coffee export procedures and implement identified reforms. National Trade Facilitation Committees (NTFCs) and trade information portals should be leveraged in this process.