By Ken Muthomi - Reporter
Kenya, May 13, 2026 - East African Community (EAC) Partner States have called for reforms in the regulation of fuel tankers transporting petroleum products across the region as part of broader efforts to improve regional trade and eliminate Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs)
The Partner states are seeking the harmonisation of legal metrology regulations, including the calibration of fuel tankers transporting petroleum products across borders.
Calibration ensures that tankers carry and deliver the correct quantity of fuel, helping to prevent fuel losses, measurement disputes, smuggling, and unfair trade practices.
They also pushed for harmonised packaging requirements for goods traded within the East African Bloc.
The discussions are taking place during the 28th East African Standards Committee (EASC) meeting currently underway in Arusha, Tanzania, which has brought together heads of metrology institutions and national standards bodies from across the region.
“The meeting seeks to review and approve reports from various technical subcommittees on the progress made in harmonizing standards and procedures aimed at eliminating Non-Tariff Barriers to Trade (NTBs) for the effective realization of the EAC Common Market,” the State Department of Trade said.
During the meeting, the partner states have also stressed the need for strengthening metrology institutions across the region for their seamless integration into the EAC agenda.
Metrology institutions are specialized government organizations responsible for maintaining and developing national measurement standards, ensuring they are traceable to the International System of Units (SI).
They ensure consistency, accuracy, and comparability of measurements across industries, supporting trade, safety, and scientific research.
The officials are optimistic that the measures will be vital in improving efficiency in cross-border trade, promoting fair trade practices, and strengthening consumer protection within EAC Partner States.
“Through enhanced cooperation and harmonized standards, the Partner States aim to facilitate smoother trade flows, improve competitiveness of regional products, and deepen economic integration among EAC member countries,” the department added.
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