Africa Trade Academy’s Dode Seidu was a panelist on EyeOnPort, a weekly TV programme on international trade and maritime to discuss trade facilitation, cross-border trade, and women in trade in Ghana and WestAfrica.
We compiled a few profound statements from the discussions for you.
1. Importance of SMEs and CrossBorder Traders
“SMEs and women in cross-border trade are very critical to the survival of the middle class in many African economies. These women cross-border traders go far and wide across several countries to bring us essentials-food products , clothes etc. and therefore when their cost of doing business is high, everyone bears that costs.”
2. Cost and Time Reduction:
“We have seen some improvements in border infrastructure and newer trade regulations, however these have not translated into reduced cost and time for small scale cross-border traders.”
3. Simplify Processes for SMEs and CrossBorder Traders, especially women:
“The value of goods carried by most women and small scale traders across the border, are of such low value it shouldn’t take any time to process or clear them through the border”
