Implementation of the EAC Common Market Protocol on Free Movement of Goods
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Date
2024-11
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Kampala International University
Abstract
This dissertation explores the implementation of the East African Community (EAC) Common Market Protocol (CMP) on the free movement of goods, focusing on the challenges and prospects. Guided by three primary objectives, the study aims to assess the implementation of the legal framework governing the East African Community Common Market Protocol on Free Movement of Goods. Employing a doctrinal research design with both primary and secondary data sources, the findings reveal several tariff and non-tariff barriers impeding the effective implementation of the EAC CMP. These barriers include customs duties, quantitative restrictions, and measures with equivalent impacts. Non-tariff barriers, such as political obstacles, high transportation costs, food insecurity, discrepancies in standards, limited logistics and trade services, and restricted access to finance, further hinder the free movement of goods within the EAC community. The study concludes that EAC Partner States, must eliminate existing tariff and non-tariff barriers to facilitate smoother trade and refrain from imposing new restrictions. The research highlights the harmonization efforts by the sub-committee on legal, including aligning laws on companies, partnerships, insolvency, business names registration, immigration, labor, sale of goods, civil aviation, and contracts with the CMP. Moreover, the study identifies practical issues such as the lack of trained staff to certify products at entry points, non-uniform direct taxation policies, border delays, inadequate infrastructure, poor road conditions, high tolls, underdeveloped telecommunications, and energy restrictions, which inflate the final landed prices of goods for Ugandan consumers. Addressing these constraints is crucial for maximizing the benefits of regional integration. This research significantly contributes to the understanding of economic integration within the EAC by illuminating the novel challenges and providing strategic recommendations to enhance the implementation of the CMP regarding the free movement of goods in East African Community.