With the hope that Kenya’s cement and confectionery gains access to the Tanzanian market, both countries have made efforts to resolve a standoff over the products.
A team of Tanzanian officials will be in Kenya this week to inspect the cement and confectionery factories to verify the source of raw materials used in their manufacture, before a decision on exports is made.
According to Chris Kiptoo, Kenya’s Trade Principal Secretary, the Kenyan products could enter Tanzanian market in two weeks’ time once the verification team completes its exercise.
During a recent bilateral trade meeting on non-tariff barriers in Arusha, the two countries agreed to fast-track the verification missions recommended for confirmation of product origin as provided for, in the East African Community rules of origin.
It was agreed that compliance with the rules of origin be upheld and preferential treatment be accorded to products that qualify, a significant breakthrough in resolving trade disputes that have become a big threat to the region’s integration efforts.
Tanzania has, since early last year, locked out the two products from its market.