{ "background": "Informal cross-border trade plays a significant role in regional integration within ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States), particularly in countries like Uganda, where formal trade channels are often underdeveloped or subject to bureaucratic delays. ", "purposeandobjectives": "To explore the dynamics and challenges faced by informal cross-border traders operating within the ECOWAS region, with a specific focus on their activities in Uganda. The study aims to identify key trends, assess their socio-economic impact, and propose recommendations for enhancing regional integration efforts. ", "methodology": "The research employs qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews with trade practitioners, observation of market conditions, and analysis of existing data from relevant government bodies and NGOs involved in cross-border commerce. Focus groups were conducted to gather insights into the perceptions and experiences of traders regarding regulatory frameworks and facilitation measures. ", "findings": "A notable finding is that informal cross-border trade contributes up to 20% to Uganda's GDP, surpassing formal trade channels in certain sectors such as agriculture and textiles. The findings highlight significant disparities in access to financing and insurance compared to their formal counterparts, which hinders sustainable growth. ", "conclusion": "The study concludes that while informal cross-border traders face numerous challenges, they represent a substantial economic asset for the region. Recommendations include improving regulatory frameworks, enhancing financial services, and promoting awareness campaigns about trade facilitation policies. ", "recommendations": "Develop targeted financial products specifically designed to support informal traders, such as microloans and insurance programmes. Implement standardised training modules for traders on market compliance and business practices. Advocate for government-led initiatives that facilitate smoother cross-border transactions through streamlined documentation processes. ", "keywords": "Informal Trade, Cross-Border Commerce, Regional Integration, ECOWAS, Uganda", "contributionₛtatement": "This study introduces a novel methodological approach by integrating semi-structured interviews with focus group discussions to provide comprehensive insights into the dynamics of informal cross-border trade within ECOWAS, particularly in a Ugandan context
Muteba et al. (Fri,) studied this question.