Niger : reform of foreign trade laws and regulations -- final report

Following a general overview of the country"s economy, this report outlines recommended changes in rules governing exports, imports, and transit goods (i.e., those that enter Niger for the purpose of re-export to another country, usually Nigeria). Most of the proposed changes concern import and export licensing procedures, which are the means through which the Ministry of Commerce exercises control over the flow of goods into and out of Niger. According to the report, the elimination of as many licensing requirements as possible would produce immediate results for economic operators. The final section presents proposals for follow-up to ensure that the new commerce regulations are effectively enforced. Suggestions for redefining the purpose and ojbectives of the Ministry of Commerce are presented, along with guidelines for training Ministry personnel to fulfill their new roles.