Establishing Well Functioning National Trade Facilitation Bodies (NTFBs)
In the OIC Member States
69
Moreover, meetings must also address new issues concerning today's markets, in order to broaden
the perspective of committee members. A list of products and services backed by current market
trends should also be provided.77
Main Achievements
The progress in the work of the Committee has been limited. However it can be mentioned that the
creation of Trade Point Beirut, a trade promotion entity founded by the Ministry of Economy and
Trade was a success. As an operational member of the World Trade Point Federation (WTPF) and the
UNCTAD Trade Point Program, it offers traders numerous trading opportunities and extensive
information on foreign markets.78
4.2.1.4. Conclusions and Recommendations
Considering the factors that must be met by these institutions, as determined by the UNCTAD, it must
be taken into account the importance of the following measures:
1. Meeting on a regular basis in order to reach agreements that will measure progress, growth,
and situations faced by the committee.
2. Publication of a work plan; in addition to formalizing the work done by the NTFB, such a
document will set clear goals to help to gain recognition for this organization.
3. Financial resources should be provided on a regular basis for the committee's activities in
order to avoid problems in the future.
4. Leadership and political commitment are necessary for the development and recognition of
the NTFB. Better organization among members will facilitate TF issues in order to achieve
new goals at national and international levels.
5. Trust and respect among stakeholders. This will be the basis on which the NTFB can move
(or not) along the right track.
In conclusion, with the establishment of a work plan, the NTFB can signal the importance of TF
matters to the government. So far, committee business seems to be a priority for the current
government, but by publishing the work plan, they can give more perspective to the great advantages
in resuming activities and resolving problems.
To develop a good work plan, persons serving on committees, especially those who serve as leaders,
need thorough preparation specializing in their area of focus.79
Another necessity is the inclusion of necessary technologies for the development of communication
among all levels of the committee. Also, the committee needs to consider the suggestion of creating a
community system that can unify the interface for the TF to report situations. The intention is to
include more stakeholders and improve the quality and speed of response.80
77 Ibid.
78
79 Mr. Abdel Hafeez Al Kaissi. Op. cit.
80 Mr. Fawzi Allam, op. cit.