Under the framework of the EU-WCO Rules of Origin Africa Programme, funded by the European Union, the World Customs Organization (WCO), in partnership with the Egyptian Customs Authority, held a national training workshop on rules of origin for Egypt Customs. The workshop was held in Cairo, Egypt, from 3 to 7 September 2023 and brought together Customs officers, participants from the Ministry of Trade and Industry, the General Organization for Export and Import Control (GOIEC) as well as the private sector with the objective to assist Egypt in enhancing its knowledge and application of preferential rules of origin.

In his opening remarks, Mr. El-Shahaat GHATWARY, Commissioner of the Egyptian Customs Authority, thanked the WCO and the EU for their vital role and consistent support in building capacity on rules of origin and highlighted that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Agreement will enhance economic integration through the opening of new horizons for trade. Rules of origin are a top priority in terms of trade facilitation and market access within the African continent.

During the workshop participants worked on key concepts for proper origin determination, related operational and procedural issues, including origin certification and origin irregularities, as well as the establishment of efficient origin management. In addition, participants discussed specific areas of concern, including the low level of knowledge and use of the FTAs and challenges linked to verification of origin including trough administrative cooperation. They also discussed recommendations for better management and implementation of rules of origin on a national and regional level.

Participants greatly appreciated the opportunity given by the workshop to exchange knowledge and experiences among different stakeholders and stressed that this broad approach is highly beneficial for enhanced cooperation and coordination on a national level.

The EU-WCO Rules of Origin Africa Programme will continue its work with Egypt Customs to equip Customs officials and relevant stakeholders with extended knowledge for efficient implementation and application of rules of origin.