From The News Time via AllAfrica

The east African Community (EAC) has drafted a new export strategy that is aimed at marketing the region as a single source of quality goods, and boosting trade among member states.

The EAC Export Promotion Strategy 2013-2017 will come into force this year, according to Richard Sezibera, the East African Community secretary general.

He told reporter in Arusha over the weekend that the strategy, which has four pillars, will focus on production of diversified and high-v alue goods, promote quality product branding and emphasise international standards.

“This strategy is expected to transform and position the region at the global stage as a competitive and dynamic export-led region and, most importantly, as a single source of exports,” Sezibera said.

The policy will also focus on capacity building and infrastructure development so as to increase the region’s competiveness and reduce cost of doing trade, as well as elimination of trade barriers and harmonization and strengthening regulatory frame work.

Robert Bayigamba, the Rwanda Manufacturers Association president, said the plan presents a huge opportunity for ‘Made in Rwanda’ products.

Written by P. Tumwebaze | Read more at AllAfrica