SUMMARY
Abstract: A range of physical, procedural and institutional problems, many due to security considerations, continue to undermine prospects for realizing the full potential of trade between the Palestinian Authority (PA) and its neighbours. Although trade accords signed between the PA, Egypt and Jordan aim to rationalize and facilitate trade flows and promote exports of Palestinian goods, they have not been adequately implemented. This study was prepared by UNCTAD as part of a UNDP-funded project, to assist the PA, in cooperation with its partners, in developing public and private sector capacities to provide trade-related services that would enhance subregional trade. The study examines the policy environment affecting regional trade, the current process of economic reform in the region and the problems and potential for regional trade promotion. It further analyses Palestinian trade flows, including the various trade routes and procedures at border crossings with Egypt, Israel and Jordan and identifies major constraints. These include cumbersome customs procedures, problems with overland transport and inadequate telecommunications and business information for trade (BIT). Recommendations, identified at a subregional expert workshop convened by UNCTADS and UNDP in Ramallah, in June 1999, are proposed in the areas of policy reforms, technical and procedural reforms, institutional and human resources development as well as in strategic trade-related services with a view to promoting subregional trade. [English and Arabic only]
