Uneven Costs, Unfair Trade? The Hidden Price of Exporting Agriculture in Africa

As Africa pushes to expand its footprint in global agricultural trade, a little-known but critical document—the phytosanitary certificate—stands as both a passport and a price tag. While designed to ensure biosecurity and plant health compliance, the cost of obtaining these certificates varies dramatically across East and Southern Africa, creating an uneven playing field for exporters.

From Rwanda’s ultra-low $0.16 fees to Tanzania’s staggering $130+ charges, this report dives deep into the cost maze that could determine who gets to trade—and who’s left behind. As Kilimokwanza.org explores in this comparative review, the price of certification is more than a bureaucratic formality; it’s a powerful factor shaping the future of Africa’s agribusiness competitiveness, inclusivity, and integration.

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