Trade Policy Recommendations to Support Sustainable Alternative Proteins
We crafted trade policy recommendations for Central African countries and African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement (AfCFTA) members aimed at bolstering support for sustainably produced wild meat. This work included proposals to harmonize the standard at the AfCFTA level that defines "wildlife meat" for commercial trade, including clarity on production and harvesting practices. We also proposed ways to refine the Harmonized System (HS) codes specific to wildlife meat, facilitating accurate assessment of trade statistics and regulatory efforts relating to wild meat. We also advocated for the establishment of private standards for wild meat harvesting, including certification of inspectors and other necessary support, in areas where administrative capacity is lacking. Additionally, we proposed ways to reform the Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Frameworks of AfCFTA members, so that they can be incorporated into national law and policy. Another recommendation relates to the establishment of Simplified Trade Regimes (STR) to address informality in the sector, simplifying rules and procedures for small traders and providing tax incentives for formal sector trading. Finally, we worked to support alternatives to wild meat as food, with Cameroon receiving TRADE Hub funding to summarize alternative options and facilitate government action.