The Greater Arab Free Trade Area (GAFTA) is a modern component of the Arab trade system established by the General Secretariat of the League of Arab States. It serves as a significant forum for trade negotiations and is referenced by periodic economic summits and the Economic and Social Council. To monitor the region's development, the Implementation and Follow-up Committee holds regular meetings to address various topics related to the region. This framework aims to enhance economic cooperation and integration among Arab countries.
The 56th meeting of the Implementation and Follow-up Committee, organised by the Arab Economic Integration Department, is scheduled to take place from 10 to 12 December at the headquarters of the General Secretariat. The participants include representatives from Arab member states of the Greater Arab Free Trade Area and a delegate from the Arab Organisation for Agricultural Development.
The meeting's agenda covers eight items, with a primary focus on follow-up, addressing the mechanisms for implementing decisions made during summits and the Economic and Social Council related to the region. Member states will discuss any obstacles hindering the implementation of regional provisions in a dedicated agenda item. Additionally, the meeting will explore the proposal to establish a trade observatory within the League of Arab States, aiming to enhance communication among focal points in the region for faster issue resolution and overcoming trade obstacles.
Other topics on the agenda include updates on the implementation of new annexes complementary to the region's executive programme, covering areas such as technical restrictions on trade, sanitation and phytosanitary measures, trade facilitation, and intellectual property. The meeting will also review the progress of relevant committees and work teams, including those focused on competition, monitoring monopolies, consumer protection, and food safety in Arab countries.
