Establishing Well Functioning National Trade Facilitation Bodies (NTFBs)
In the OIC Member States
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Trade facilitation activities seem to have financial resources, as the AFACT Secretariat covers all costs
incurred. Specifically those that relate to performing its responsibilities as Secretariat and
maintaining the AFACT website.
Besides the above, the hosting member is entitled to charge a participation fee for each delegate if it
is deemed extremely necessary to host an event. The amount charged is decided in advance in
consultation with the steering committee.
3.4.10. Sierra Leone
Description
The official name of the NTFB of Sierra Leone is National trade facilitation committee, was
established in 2013.
It is composed of representatives from Ministry of Trade and Industry, Sierra Leone Business Forum,
National Revenue Authority, Sierra Leone Ports Authority and representatives of the Clearing and
Forwarding Association as well as the Sierra Leone Importers Associations.
There is not enough information about the organization and functions of the NTFB.
3.4.11. Sudan
Description
Sudan's National Trade Facilitation Body (NTFB) was set up as recently as 2009. At first, it was
established as an ad hoc group, however, over time it has evolved into a permanent group.
It has been reported that both public and private sectors participate fully. The following public sector
agencies are involved: the Sudan Customs Authority; the Ministry of Trade; the Ministry of Finance
and National Economy; the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; the Ministry of Industry; the Ministry of
Justice: the Ministry of Agriculture; the Ministry of Animal Resources; the Ministry of Transport; the
Ministry of Cabinet; the Bank of Sudan; the Seaports Authority; the Civil Aviation Authority; the
Sudanese Standards Authority; the Sudan Trade Point; the Ministry of Health; the Agency for
Insurance and Finance of Exports; the National Center for Information; and the National
Telecommunication Corporation.
Likewise, private sector participates actively, and includes the Association of Business; the
Association of Chambers of Commerce; the Association of Chambers of Industry; shipping agents;
and clearing agents.
Within the structure it is only mentioned the existence of a "chair. The main objective of this NTFB is
to coordinate the work of border agencies with a view to facilitating trade according to international
standards. This NTFB receives some financial assistance from member agencies, such as Customs,
Standards, and Cleaning agents. However, funding is one of its greatest obstacles.
Regarding the output of the NTFB, a "Guide for Trade Procedures" will due to be produced and
published in the future. However, no real accountable progress has been recorded.