The ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS), first introduced in 1979, now covers manufactured goods but still faces hurdles such as non-tariff barriers, complex paperwork, and uneven adoption by member states.Member nations recently met in Accra to … Read on blog or Reader SMALL BUSINESS INSIGHTS Read on blog or Reader ECOWAS pushes digital trade systems to boost regional integration By Busola Bamidele on September 23, 2025 The ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS), first introduced in 1979, now covers manufactured goods but still faces hurdles such as non-tariff barriers, complex paperwork, and uneven adoption by member states. Member nations recently met in Accra to address these bottlenecks, agreeing to upgrade the ETLS website and improve communication between national focal points. Read also ECOWAS pushes digital trade systems to boost regional integration Nigeria can surpass U.S. economy by harnessing youth talent – Shettima FG orders swift payment to agro-dealers as AfDB releases N30bn for farmers China,Tanzania agribusiness pact boosts farmers, food security Nigeria's rising reserves signal fresh opportunities for SMEs Officials say these reforms are key to unlocking opportunities within the $4 trillion African Continental Free Trade Area. For SMEs, the digital shift promises faster approvals, lower costs, and easier access to regional markets—if awareness campaigns and consistent implementation follow. ECOWAS has begun rolling out digital certification tools to strengthen cross-border trade, launching an electronic certificate of origin in November 2024 to curb fraud and simplify trade documentation.

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