EAC Leaders Set June 2026 Deadline to Eliminate Non-Tariff Barriers

The East African Community (EAC) Heads of State Summit has directed Partner States to resolve all Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs) by 30 June 2026, in a move aimed at strengthening regional trade and improving the free movement of goods across the bloc.

The directive was issued during the 25th Ordinary Summit of EAC Heads of State held in Arusha, Tanzania, where leaders emphasized the urgent need to address administrative, regulatory and procedural barriers that continue to hinder the smooth movement of goods and services across borders.

In the communiqué issued at the conclusion of the summit, the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening regional integration and facilitating seamless trade within the eight-member bloc. 

The move is expected to enhance intra-EAC trade, reduce the cost of doing business and strengthen the region’s competitiveness.

During the summit, leaders also officially launched the EAC Customs Bond, a single regional guarantee under the Single Customs Territory framework designed to simplify the movement of goods across borders.

The new bond replaces multiple national transit bonds and allows traders and clearing agents to secure one bond recognized across all Partner States, significantly reducing costs and bureaucratic procedures associated with cross-border trade.

The summit further launched the 7th EAC Development Strategy (2026–2031), which outlines the bloc’s priorities for the next five years, with a strong focus on deepening trade integration, accelerating economic growth and advancing socio-economic transformation across the region.