Lome: Burkina Faso and Togo are taking significant steps to enhance transit and trade efficiency along the Lome-Ouagadougou corridor. This initiative was the focus of a recent meeting aimed at addressing the persistent challenges faced by both nations.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the Burkinabe delegation identified several constraints affecting the corridor's performance, including high demurrage costs, delays in port and customs operations, insufficient facilitation infrastructure, and the need for improved adaptation of administrative mechanisms. These issues have been exacerbated by the reorganization of certain customs offices.

On the Togolese side, the discussions centered around improving freight management, particularly in terms of quota compliance and streamlining administrative procedures at the Cinkasse Joint Border Post. The high frequency of roadside checks and inadequate infrastructure were also noted as factors impacting the corridor's competitiveness.

To address these challenges, both countries have agreed to implement a range of concrete measures. These include establishing a permanent consultation framework, operationalizing joint mechanisms for road transport reflection, accelerating customs procedures harmonization, and combating abnormal practices. Additionally, efforts will be made to improve infrastructure and working conditions for carriers and enhance transparency in freight management.

The Ministers have also scheduled a follow-up meeting in three months to assess progress and sustain momentum in these efforts.