The Ministry of Finance, led by Mr. Teraoka Mitsuhiro, has reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to supporting the East African Community (EAC) in harnessing technology to strengthen trade facilitation and deepen regional integration.
His remarks followed a high-level meeting with the EAC Deputy Secretary General in charge of Customs, Trade and Monetary Affairs, Hon. Annette Ssemuwemba, held in Tokyo on the sidelines of the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9).
During the bilateral discussions, the two sides explored avenues for enhanced cooperation in customs modernization, digital trade facilitation, capacity building, and the application of cutting-edge technology to promote efficiency and transparency in cross-border trade.
Hon. Ssemuwemba welcomed Japan’s continued support, stressing the critical role of strategic partnerships in realizing the EAC’s vision of becoming a fully integrated and competitive region.
“The integration of digital solutions into trade processes is no longer optional—it is imperative for unlocking the full potential of intra-regional and international trade. Japan’s partnership will significantly advance our customs and trade digitalization agenda,” she said.
Mr. Mitsuhiro commended the EAC for the progress it has made in regional integration and assured that Japan will continue to support EAC programs, particularly in areas aligned with Japan’s trade facilitation priorities and international cooperation agenda.
The meeting builds on the long-standing cooperation between Japan and the EAC and reflects Japan’s broader commitment to advancing sustainable development, economic growth, and connectivity in Africa through innovative and inclusive approaches.
It further underscored the importance of partnerships between Africa and development actors under the TICAD framework, particularly in trade, infrastructure, and digital innovation.
TICAD 9 convened African leaders, development partners, and international organizations to deliberate on inclusive growth, sustainable development, and future partnership opportunities for Africa. The EAC’s participation reaffirmed its dedication to building strategic alliances that drive forward its integration agenda.
Since 2007, Japan, through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), has actively supported the EAC in customs, trade, and infrastructure development through a series of technical cooperation and grant-aid projects.
This article was published by Githua Kihara, an editorial consultant for FEAFFA’s Freight Logistics Magazine. For any inquiries, please contact us via email at editorial@feaffa.com or freightlogistics@feaffa.com, or reach out to Andrew Onionga directly at onionga@feaffa.com or oningaam@gmail.com / +254733780240.
