The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Trade Facilitation and Private Sector Development programmes are three multi-year European Union funded projects to enhance trade in the COMESA region and promote private enterprise and regional value chains.

With a combined budget of 78 million Euro, funded through the 11th European Development Fund, these programmes focus on implementing the World Trade Organization’s trade facilitation agreements, harmonised standards and the regulation of non-tariff barriers. The programmes also look at improving border infrastructure and implementing trade facilitation instruments for small scale traders. They strengthen Cross Border Trade Associations (CBTAs), improve competitiveness and market access for agro-processing, horticulture and leather products.