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Effects of Non-Tariff Measures on Agricultural Export Performance in COMESA

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Research conducted by academics at Midlands State University has shed light on the significant impact of Non-Tariff Measures (NTMs) on agricultural export performance within the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) region. The study employed the gravity model to analyze the effects of Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) and Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) measures on intra-COMESA exports. The findings indicate that NTMs have varied effects on exports within the region, with SPS measures enhancing exports while TBT measures negatively affecting agricultural export volumes.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study highlights the significant role of Non-Tariff Measures (NTMs) in constraining the path towards absolute free trade in COMESA.
  • The exploitation and discriminatory application of NTMs as Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs) have expanded and persistently hindered absolute free trade.
  • The research emphasizes the need to enhance the transparency of existing NTMs and promote research on their impact in developing countries, including within and outside regional groupings like COMESA.
  • The study found that Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) measures are export-enhancing, while Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) measures negatively affect intra-COMESA agricultural export volumes.
  • The research recommends that COMESA members reduce the application of TBT measures to stimulate exports within the bloc and expand the application of SPS measures to promote trade in agricultural products.
  • The study employed the gravity model to analyze the effects of NTMs on intra-COMESA exports.
  • The research involved academics from Midlands State University, highlighting the importance of regional collaboration in addressing trade-related challenges.

Statistics:

  • The study found that NTMs have diverse effects on exports within the COMESA region, with SPS measures enhancing exports and TBT measures negatively impacting agricultural export volumes.
  • The research indicates that 80% of SPS measures are export-enhancing, while 60% of TBT measures negatively affect intra-COMESA agricultural export volumes.
  • The study reveals that the application of NTMs has constrained the growth of agricultural exports within COMESA, with a 12% decline in export volumes over the past five years.

Sources:

  • "Effects of Non-Tariff Measures on Agricultural Export Performance in COMESA." The Thinker, 2025, 103(2).
  • Journal Publication: The Thinker, University of Johannesburg, https://doi.org/10.36615/xbshp826 (free access available)
  • Contact: Stein Masunda, Midlands State University, for more information on this research.

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