AES and Togo Prepared Preferential Customs Tariff
Officials met in Ouagadougou to harmonize trade rules and customs procedures between the participating nations.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in International Trade
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Experts from the Alliance of Sahel States and Togo gathered to develop a preferential customs tariff regime. The meeting in Ouagadougou aims to finalize rules of origin and certification procedures to streamline regional trade.
Why it matters
Harmonizing these practices is intended to facilitate trade between the nations and secure public revenue. The initiative builds upon a framework established following the group's withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States.
Four nations are participating in the current tariff planning sessions. The framework follows the July 2024 establishment of the Confederation of Sahel States.
The players
Alliance of Sahel States
This confederation consists of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger after their withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States.
Institute of Public Finance
This Burkina Faso-based institution provides technical support and capacity building for regional customs administrations.
The details
Customs experts are drafting certification procedures and rules of origin to support the broader goal of trade facilitation. Capacity building for these administrations is being supported by Burkina Faso's Institute of Public Finance.
Timeline
The Confederation of Sahel States was established in July 2024.
Customs officials held a previous meeting in Bamako on October 2 and 3, 2025.
Experts convened in Ouagadougou from October 12 to 14, 2026, to draft the regime.
The fifth meeting of AES Customs Directors General is scheduled for October 15 and 16, 2026.
Market Dynamics
The AES initiative marks a significant departure from the trade policies mandated by the Economic Community of West African States treaty. This shift requires the creation of entirely new customs protocols as these nations establish an independent economic bloc.
Businesses operating within these nations may soon face new certification procedures and tariff structures. Stakeholders should monitor upcoming announcements regarding rules of origin to ensure compliance with the emerging trade framework.
The takeaway
The development of a unified customs regime is a critical step for the newly formed confederation to manage its own economic boundaries. Businesses and trade entities should prepare for potential adjustments in documentation and import requirements.
What happens next
The fifth meeting of AES Customs Directors General is scheduled to take place on October 15 and 16, 2026.
Further reading
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