The Simplified Trade Regime (STR) for small-scale cross-border traders

Why this regime exists

A significant share of cross-border trade in East Africa is carried out by small-scale traders, often informal, who cross borders with limited quantities of goods. The EAC Simplified Trade Regime (STR) aims to ease this trade by replacing standard customs formalities with a simplified document for goods on an agreed common product list, below a given value threshold.

How it generally works

The trader uses a simplified declaration document and, depending on the country, may be assisted by trade facilitation officers at high-traffic border posts. Value thresholds, the list of eligible products and precise arrangements vary by bilateral agreement between partner states and are not reproduced here.

Check on site

• The list of eligible products and the value threshold applicable at the relevant border post.
• Whether a trade information desk or trade facilitation officers are available at that post.
• The simplified rules of origin applicable under the STR.