Establishing Well Functioning National Trade Facilitation Bodies (NTFBs)
In the OIC Member States
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correctly identified and solutions/reforms proposed may not be viable – in sum, an NTFB without
appropriate coordination cannot properly function. As mentioned elsewhere, this is why domestic
coordination has been identified as key for implementation of the WTO’s Trade Facilitation
Agreement.
 Trust between stakeholders
Trust is essential for the effective functioning of NTFBs because, where trust is absent stakeholders
will not find solutions nor commit to the agreements reached throughout the meetings. In some
respects, trust among the stakeholders opens channels of communications and enhances chances of
implementing the agreements found within the NTFB. This implies that the existence of certain
conditions – e.g. regular follow up on meetings and other inputs; compliance with terms of reference;
etc.
 Ability to find consensus when taking decisions
Where possible, it is ideal to reach consensus between all stakeholders in order to enable the
implementation of trade facilitation solutions. NTFBs must play a role in building this consensus by
opening channels of communication and by providing a forum for inputs from all relevant
stakeholders.
 Two representatives per stakeholder for attending meetings
Each stakeholder can appoint two people/focal points for attending the meetings. This measure
prevents lack of participation to the meetings. Moreover, it guarantees the continuation of the issues
in the event of the rotation of personnel.
 An effective communication system
Effective communication systems are essential to keep all stakeholders informed of inter alia the
NTFB’s meetings; its work and progress made; new documents (produced by the NTFB or another
source); upcoming events; and best practices. Thus, effective communication systems impact the
degree of participation and commitment as well as the perceived legitimacy and transparency of the
NTFB’s work.
Different NTFBs employ different means of achieving this – e.g., many rely on their website,
newsletters, mailing lists, and provision of seminars.
 Decision makers’ participation
Who the decision makers are precisely will depend on the structure of the particular NTFB.
Participation of decision makers is obviously important because it impacts inter alia the quality of
the NTFB’s work, its legitimacy, and the level of commitment/participation by stakeholders. For
example, in order for private sector stakeholders to be engaged and participate, the NTFB’s decision
makers must be perceived as committed and participating.173
173 It is broadly recognised that the public sector should employ the necessary techniques to encourage and promote participation of
the private sector in NTFBs.