Author: 9otcx

Kenya’s Levy on Legumes and Pulses – Impact on Regional Trade and Food Security

Kenya’s Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) announced the imposition of a 2% levy on the customs value of imported legumes and pulses, including beans, lentils, soybeans, and peanuts. While aimed at supporting local farmers and increasing government revenue, the levy raises significant concerns regarding its legal ramifications, disruption of regional trade, and potential impact on […]

Nigeria’s First FLNG Project: A Game-Changer for the Economy

In a significant development for Nigeria’s energy sector, UTM FLNG Limited, the developer behind the country’s inaugural floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) facility, is set to make a Final Investment Decision (FID) by the fourth quarter of 2024. This pivotal investment aims to bolster energy security, lower gas prices, increase foreign exchange earnings, generate job […]

Nigeria’s AfCFTA Guided Trade Initiative: Paving the Path to Economic Integration

The recent launch of Nigeria’s AfCFTA Guided Trade Initiative marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s economic trajectory. Led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and Mr. Olusegun Awolowo, National Coordinator of Nigeria’s AfCFTA Coordination Office, the event symbolizes Nigeria’s commitment to intra-African trade integration and economic advancement. Historical Context and Vision: The event, held at […]

Liberia’s Energy Potential: Insights from the Invest in African Energy 2024 Reception

Liberia recently showcased its burgeoning opportunities in the energy sector at the prestigious Invest in African Energy Reception, hosted by the African Energy Chamber. Positioned strategically on the West Africa Transform Margin, Liberia boasts extensive 2D and 3D seismic data in the Liberia and Harper basins, affirming substantial petroleum reserves identified by leading global players. […]

The Brussels Effect and Its Impact on Africa

The Brussels Effect and Its Impact on Africa

The Brussels Effect highlights the European Union’s (EU) ability to shape global markets through its rigorous regulatory standards. This influence extends to Africa, where adherence to EU regulations becomes increasingly crucial for trade and economic partnerships. From data privacy to environmental standards, these regulations not only set benchmarks but also influence Africa’s integration into global markets. Understanding the Brussels Effect is essential for African businesses navigating international trade dynamics and compliance requirements.

National Digital Economy and e-Governance Bill Advances First Reading

Minister of Communications Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijjani, has expressed confidence in the transformative potential of the National Digital Economy and e-Governance Bill currently undergoing deliberation in the National Assembly. Sponsored by Chairman Adedeji Dhikrullahi Olajide of the House Committee on Digital and Information Technology, the bill recently achieved a significant milestone by clearing […]

Empowering Economic Growth: The Impact of Services Trade

Today’s interconnected global economy underscores the critical role of services trade. A recent report, “Trade in Services for Development: Fostering Sustainable Growth and Economic Diversification,” highlights its significance in driving GDP, employment, and economic resilience, especially in the post-COVID-19 era. Services trade is essential for export diversification, productivity growth, and technological adoption, offering developing economies […]

Nigerian Customs to Integrate with ECOWAS e-System for Abidjan-Lagos Corridor

In a significant move to streamline trade along the Abidjan-Lagos Corridor, the Customs Directors General from Nigeria, Ghana, and three neighboring African countries have agreed to adopt the ECOWAS electronic Interconnected Transit Goods Management System (SIGMAT). This agreement aims to facilitate trade by enabling the electronic sharing of information on goods in transit, replacing the […]

Securing the Future: Addressing Nigeria’s Major Data Breach Crisis

Recently, Nigeria has been grappling with a significant data breach crisis, affecting numerous sectors and exposing sensitive information. This breach highlights the urgent need for enhanced data security measures. Understanding the Impact The data breach has wide-ranging implications across various industries, including international trade, energy, forensics, and environmental management. Compromised data can disrupt supply chains, […]

Leveraging the WTO Chairs Programme for Inclusive Trade.

The WTO Chairs Programme Annual Conference brought to light the pivotal role of academic research in ensuring that trade benefits all segments of society. Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala emphasized the program’s impact on making trade inclusive for women, young people, indigenous populations, and the environment. Held in Geneva, the conference united members of the Chairs Programme […]

Unlocking the Potential of African Cotton: A Call for Greater Collaboration.

At the 9th Global Review of Aid for Trade, Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala addressed the significant strides made in the WTO-FIFA-led “Partenariat pour le Coton” initiative. This ambitious project aims to boost African countries in the cotton value chain, enabling them to gain more from their cotton production. Director-General Okonjo-Iweala celebrated the expansion of this multi-agency […]

Driving Inclusive Economic Growth: Insights from the Douala EGM on Boosting Intra-African Trade.

On June 19, 2024, Douala, Cameroon, hosted a pivotal Expert Group Meeting (EGM) convened by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) in collaboration with the African Union (AU). This significant event focused on evaluating and advancing the Boosting Intra-African Trade (BIAT) Action Plan in alignment with the revolutionary objectives of the African Continental […]

AfCFTA Challenges and Their Impact on African Market Integration.

Recent insights from FDI Intelligence highlight the challenges hindering the effective implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) among African nations. These challenges, compounded by infrastructure deficits and limited access to finance, pose significant barriers to achieving a unified African market. As of May 30, 2024, the AfCFTA has been in force for […]

Harboursim LP at the Forefront.

Our Principal Consultant, Soji Awogbade, chaired a session at the 10th Lagos International Climate Change Summit, focused on Climate Change Finance and Sustainable Development. This marks his 8th appearance at the summit, solidifying our company’s position as a thought leader in international trade, energy, environmental sustainability, and forensics. At Harboursim LP, we’re dedicated to driving […]

Key Insights from the 10th Lagos International Climate Change Summit: Accelerating Climate Finance and Local Adaptation.

The 10th Lagos International Climate Change Summit, held from 10-13 June 2024, convened stakeholders and experts to address pressing environmental challenges and opportunities in Lagos State. The summit focused on accelerating climate finance and championing local adaptation initiatives as crucial steps toward achieving sustainable development goals. Among the distinguished speakers, Soji Awogbade, Principal Consultant at […]

Celebrating Visionaries: Honouring Soji Awogbade, Benoît de la Fouchardiere, and Julius Rone at IAE 2024.

At the recent Invest in African Energy 2024 (IAE 2024) forum in Paris, France, distinguished individuals were honoured for their exceptional contributions to shaping Africa’s oil and gas sector. This event celebrated the pioneering efforts of industry leaders, showcasing their dedication to driving positive change and fostering collaboration within the industry. Soji Awogbade, Principal Consultant […]

Nigeria’s Just Transition Roadmap: A Path to Equitable Climate Action.

In a landmark event at the UN House in Abuja on April 12, 2024, the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) joined hands with the International Labour Organisation (ILO), the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to pioneer a Just Transition Roadmap (JTR) for Nigeria. This strategic collaboration […]

WTO-ITC Collaboration: $1.2 Million Grant to Tackle Nigeria’s Agricultural Export Challenges.

In recent developments, both the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the International Trade Centre (ITC) have embarked on collaborative efforts aimed at bolstering Nigerian agribusinesses. These initiatives focus on enhancing food safety standards, increasing in-country value addition, and promoting digital trade. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the key highlights from both organizations: Project Launch and […]

AfCFTA Digital Trade: Empowering Africa

Digital Trade will significantly ameliorate the trade infrastructure deficit predominant on the African continent. It is great to note that the AfCFTA is embracing the challenge by adopting strategies around digital trade. Please join our Principal Consultant Soji Awogbade FEI and other experts at an upcoming workshop organized by the National Action Committee of the […]

Harboursim LP Spearheads National Climate Commitments in Collaboration with NCCC.

Abuja, 01 March, 2024. Harboursim LP is embarking on a collaborative journey with the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) to bolster Nigeria’s drive towards meeting its National Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. Caption: Left: Salisu Dahiru; Right: Soji Awogbade During a pivotal meeting between representatives of Harboursim LP and the Director General of […]

Carbon Taxes in Africa: Promoting Sustainable Development.

Ghana’s recent implementation of a carbon levy on vehicles reflects a broader trend in Africa, where several countries have adopted similar measures. This raises questions about the effectiveness of product-related taxes like these in developing robust carbon pricing systems, particularly in the face of global pressure to combat climate change. Potential Benefit for Economics in […]

WTO Draft Ministerial Decision of the 13th WTO Ministerial Conference on Promoting Agricultural Production and Trade in NFIDCs And LDCs

Introduction On the 12th of December, 2023, the World Trade Organisation circulated the communication of the Draft Ministerial Decision of the 13th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO).[1] The communication contained the decision of the ministerial conference aimed at promoting agricultural production and trade in Net Food Importing Developing Countries (NFIDCS) and Least […]

Happy New Year from Harboursim LP

As we usher in the possibilities of a new year, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your trust and partnership. Your continued support has been the wind in our sails, propelling us towards success. May 2024 be a year of prosperity, growth, and shared achievements. We are excited about the opportunities ahead and look forward […]

Navigating the Waters of COP28: Examining the Impact on Energy Policy.

The COP28 agreement, marked by a historic call for a phase out of fossil fuels and ambitious targets for renewable energy development and energy efficiency, has garnered both praise and skepticism regarding its impact on the U.S. energy landscape. Strengths: Weaknesses: In conclusion, while the COP28 agreement is hailed for its symbolic significance and potential […]

ENSafrica Webinar

ENSafrica Webinar | Insights from Nigeria’s Investment Facilitation Agencies.