Togo and China have signed a protocol on plant quarantine requirements applicable to Togolese soybean exports to the Chinese market, according to their joint declaration dated Thursday 15 October in Beijing. The signing takes place during the official visit of Faure Gnassingbé to China, from 9 to 16 October.
The arrangement sets out the phytosanitary conditions to be met before shipments, including controls on harmful organisms. It is intended to ease exporters' access to this outlet, but the declaration does not set a timetable for new deliveries.
This health component accompanies the zero-duty tariff advantage granted by Beijing to African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations. The declaration distinguishes this tariff measure from cooperation on inspection and quarantine.
The two countries also signed a memorandum on authorised economic operators. It involves the Office togolais des recettes and the General Administration of Customs of China to deepen their cooperation and facilitate trade.