Senegal's economic growth has been mainly attributable to the expansion in telecommunications and transport services together with construction, boosted by the relatively large flow of public and private investment. Niger's economic performance is still determined by the outcome of its harvests, much of its economic activities being agricultural, including livestock breeding.
The report notes the efforts undertaken by both countries for economic integration in the frames of WAEMU (West African Economic and Monetary Union) and ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States). Nonetheless, considerable structural problems, including supply-side constraints and limited diversification, still impede the economic development of Niger and Senegal.
The report also underlines the importance of external aid and technical assistance to enable the two countries to strengthen their WTO commitments, take greater advantage of their participation in the multilateral trading system and support their strategy aimed at achieving the Millennium Development Goals in particular the reduction of poverty.
The report, along with policy statements by the Governments of Niger and Senegal, will be the basis for the second Trade Policy Review (TPR) of Niger and the third of Senegal by the Trade Policy Review Body of the WTO on 11 and 13 November 2009.#
TRADE POLICY REVIEW: NIGER AND SENEGAL
Special Correspondent - 2009-11-12 13:39
Since the previous joint review of their trade policies in 2003, the economic performance of Niger and Senegal has been similar, with an annual average rate of growth of 5,1% for Senegal and 5.0% for Niger over the period, according to a WTO Secretariat report on the trade policies and practices of Niger and Senegal.