The implications of non-tariff barriers to trade on Comesa free trade area: a case study of Zambia and Zimbabwe

Abstract

This research sought to explore the implications of Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs) to trade on the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) free trade area bearing in mind that if the area is appropriately dealt with, COMESA members and trade stakeholders will get information that is important in their attempt to attain the goal of eliminating trade impediments within the region which is then expected to promote regional economic integration and enhance growth through increased investment levels; scaled up exchange of goods and services; and enhanced socio economic cooperation which will directly contribute to the improved political and trade relations. The area was worthy studying since the wishes of every African is to see economic growth through economic cooperation within the continent which for so long has been languishing in poverty and seeking divine intervention from countries from the West for survival. The research adopted a case study design in which various cases were examined to understand issues surrounding the implications of NTBs on COMESA free trade area. A qualitative research methodology was also utilised because the data that was to be gathered was found to be subjective in nature and as such qualitative research methods like interviews, documents analysis were to be used in order to understand and explain the various NTBs. The research concluded that NTBs in COMESA FTA are used on health issues as well as to protect the infant industries in the region. The research therefore recommended that COMESA members find a working definition of what constitute an infant industry for the purpose of applying for derogation; and also that they make use of bilateral trade agreements to eliminate existing NTBs where States clearly indicated their objectives of removing all NTBs that inhibit trade between them because chances of full implementation and abiding by such undertakings are higher at bilateral level than at regional level where a lot of parties are involved.