COMPETE Trip Report

The meeting was attended by B. Fisher, CTA Advisor, who participated in the proceedings and provided input into the development of the "Notice" and agenda. Fisher tabled proposals to amend the federation's Memorandum and Articles, including widening the membership structure, reviewing the appointment of "nominated" directors, and introducing an "ex-officio" non-voting category. The AGM resolutions included introducing a new category of "Corporate" members, aligning the tenure of "nominated" directors to that of the main Board of Directors, and introducing an "ex-officio" non-voting category. Membership fees were also increased by 83% and 50% for corporate and associate categories, respectively. The resolutions aimed to strengthen the federation's governance structure and increase its membership base. The regional cotton, textile, and apparel stakeholders' forum was held on August 2-3, 2012, in collaboration with the Africa Trade Policy Centre (ATPC) of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA). The forum brought together 40 participants from across southern, eastern, and west Africa, representing 13 countries, 3 regional/Africa associations, 17 national associations, and 3 Trade Hubs. The event aimed to promote regional integration and build linkages and trade opportunities between the regions. Key topics discussed at the forum included the opportunities and challenges facing the cotton, textile, and apparel industries in each country, the need to address the "weak link" in the value chain, and the impact of AGOA on the industry. The forum recognized the need for Governments to have the political will, progressive national policies, and a specific commitment to support the growth and development of the textile sector. The industry was also encouraged to look beyond 2015 and consider innovative and smart thinking to inform the direction of a "New Look" AGOA. New ACTIF membership was also discussed, with three new corporate members from Mali and Cote de Voire, and one associate member from Nigeria. Key contacts made during the forum included consultations with the West Africa Trade Hub, the Southern Africa Trade Hub, and the Africa Trade Policy Centre. Follow-up actions included continuing engagement with ACTIF to provide technical assistance and guidance on institutional matters arising out of the AGM and initiatives coming out of the stakeholders' forum.