The role of information and communication technology in trade facilitation in Tanzania

Trade facilitation has emerged as a key issue in the development of trade, as highlighted in the WTO Doha Development Agenda (DDA) negotiations. The Information and Communications Technology (ICT) networks and financial institutions have now become new keys for modern trade facilitation. Measures actively facilitating trade are increasingly seen as essential in assisting Tanzania expand trade and benefit from globalisation. There has been little concern with the ease and speed of Customs procedures, port efficiency, regulatory reforms, greater trade cost reductions and trade welfare benefits that can be reaped from a broader view of information and communication technology (ICT) in trade facilitation. The major trade facilitation reforms that are particularly beneficial include improving Customs procedures; port efficiency, reducing unnecessary excessive documentation requirements; addressing lack of transparency in import-export requirements, modernisation of customs and port procedures and cooperation with Other Government Departments (OGD). Moreover, the availability and use of Information and Communication Technology in facilitating trade is now of paramount importance. The role of ICT in facilitating trade is positively significant and correlated in addressing trade facilitation-related problems and delivery in terms of efficiency in ports, simplification of customs procedures, import –export, increased revenue collection and trade costs reduction.