Ethiopia Hosts 1st Meeting of COMESA Technical Working Group on Electronic Single Window

Addis Ababa, July 19, 2022 (Walta) – Ethiopia is hosting the 1st meeting of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) technical working group on Electronic Single Window (ESW), according to the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration.

The decision was made to realize harmonized and standard data connectivity platform among the other government agencies and private stakeholders who are active players across the trade supply chain with an aim of improving intra-regional trade and investment.

Accordingly, Ethiopia was selected to host the first meeting of the COMESA technical working group on Electronic Single Windows (ESW). The meeting is underway in Addis Ababa from 18-21 July 2022.

In his opening speech, State Minister of Trade and Regional Integration, Kasahun Gofe highlighted the significance of the ESW in utilizing intra-regional investment opportunities in a proper manner.

The objective of the meeting is to discuss and consider the situational assessment study report, the draft legal frameworks and the draft strategy for development and implementation of the COMESA electronic single window (ESW).

Moreover, the meeting will receive presentations on the status of COMESA digital FTA instruments and share experience of other international organizations and partners.