{UAH} China seeks free trade pact with East Africa region - Business

China is negotiating for the creation of a free trade agreement with the EAC.

The EAC has already signed co-operation agreements on trade with the US and the EU.

However, East African Business Council executive director Lillian Awinja cautioned that free trade with China would hinder EAC industrialisation.

"EAC shouldn't rush to negotiate an FTA with China. We need to study, consult a wide range of stakeholders, and establish the impact of such a deal on the EAC industrialisation blueprint," Ms Awinja told The EastAfrican.

She said the EAC needs to protect its investors in the manufacturing industry rather than expose them to unfair competition.

Ms Awinja said that already China floods the EAC market with its products.

"China has the capacity to flood the whole world with their products.  If we are to protect our industries, let's choose only a few products from China," said Gasper Mpehongwa, a development lecturer at Tumaini University.

http://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/business/China-seeks-free-trade-pact-with-East-Africa-region/-/2560/3151770/-/10d6918z/-/index.html

Sincerely,

Brian M. Kwesiga