OECS Officials Consider Trade Facilitation Framework Study
Senior customs and trade officials met in Saint Lucia on 25-26th November to discuss the findings of a study which explored the policy options for a trade facilitation architecture in the Economic Union. Particular focus was placed on, resource mobilization and the implementation plan. Recommendations emerging from the study cover trade policy formulation, legislation, operation of a common market, transportation and infrastructure, public education and strategies for resource mobilization. Officials also guided the refinement, adoption and prioritization of the recommendations. Facilitation treats with the factors that affect the cost and time to move goods and services across borders and is critical for the effective and efficient operation of the OECS Economic Union. The OECS Trade Policy Unit says the ease of movement of goods and services will contribute to trade efficiency and improved competitiveness of the region. The study was financed by the EU sponsored Tradecom Facility and the findings will be presented to the Heads of Government of the OECS.
Trade Policy Unit Prepares to Meet Trade Officials to Discuss the Trade Policy Regime in the Economic Union
The Trade Policy Unit continued preparations for a meeting of Permanent Secretaries and Directors of Trade to discuss the implementation of a trade policy regime in the Economic Union. With the signing of the Treaty establishing the Economic Union in June this year it is important for officials to consider the obligations arising from the treaty with a view to developing a work programme for the short to medium term. The meeting will be held in Saint Lucia on 17th December and will be financed by the Hubs and Spokes Project.
Trade Policy Unit Participates in a Regional Capacity Building Workshop to Enhance Professional Services Exports
The Trade Policy Unit made two presentations at a regional capacity building workshop for service providers and policy makers in St. Kitts during 29th November to 2nd December. The meeting considered the challenges and opportunities in the sector and amongst other things agreed that there is need for a vision for the services sector, to improving the enabling environment, identification of a champion to promote the importance of the sector nationally and capacity building of firms and institutions that support the sector. The Coalition of Service industries was regarded as critical in advocating and promoting the sector.
The next issue of UpDate will be available in January 2011
