This Genomics Sequencing CoP ECHO session focused on unpacking dynamics in customs regulations and clearance processes and how they affect procurement and supply of Genomic sequence commodities.

Country level customs regulations on importation of externally manufactured products has been cited and experienced as one of the key bottlenecks affecting procurement and supply of laboratory diagnostics including Genomic Sequence (GS) commodities across African Union member states. It is a complex process given that it often involves need to meet statutory requirements while racing against time to respond to public health testing demand. This may be due to high taxation and tariffs, countries’ regulatory efforts to reduce risks of importing restricted goods, lengthy bureaucratic processes. As a result, there is delayed service delivery, loss of products when they expire at the customs where houses given that often they have short expiry dates, loss of products potency due unfavorable storage conditions at the customs warehouses.

In this session, we engaged stakeholders including Manufactures, Procurement Specialists, Public Health Laboratory Professionals, Genomic Sequence Experts and Channel Partners to discuss the specific complex customs clearance dynamic challenges and explored mechanisms on how to navigate these challenges to improve the customs clearance processes towards more efficient and effective PSM of GS commodities. Potential country level and continental level potential actionable solution were proposed. We welcome you to listen session proceeding in the attached recording.