Accra: The successful implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) heavily depends on the collaboration between customs authorities and various stakeholders, according to Jonathan Dabrah, the Acting Head of Tariff and Trade Unit at the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA). According to Ghana News Agency, speaking at a media forum organized by the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), Mr. Dabrah highlighted the critical role of customs in the trade facilitation under AfCFTA but emphasized that achieving significant results requires the collective efforts of Customs House Brokers, the private sector, and other relevant stakeholders. The forum focused on the 'Rules of Origin'-a central aspect of AfCFTA that determines the economic nationality of goods and ensures that only qualified products receive preferential tariff treatment. Mr. Dabrah pointed out that the isolation of customs from other trade facilitators could hinder the smooth implementation of these rules. H e called for enhanced engagement and capacity building among all parties involved to align with the standards and expectations set under the agreement. He noted that ongoing training initiatives are aimed at equipping brokers and other key players with the necessary skills to adhere to the new trade protocols. The chief revenue officer also explained the importance of the concept of 'substantial transformation' in the rules of origin, which ensures that raw materials undergo significant changes before qualifying as originating from a specific country. He used the transformation of Ghanaian cocoa into chocolate as an example of how value is added to meet origin criteria. In his address, Mr. Dabrah revealed that an AfCFTA Academy is set to be established by the AfCFTA Secretariat to further empower customs brokers and trade professionals across the continent. Additionally, he mentioned the creation of a specialized tariff and trade unit within the GRA to oversee the implementation of free trade agreements, in cluding AfCFTA. He assured that the Customs Division would continue to enforce a risk management approach that includes selective inspections of goods and post-clearance audits. Although the focus remains on facilitating trade, compliance with the rules of origin will not be compromised. Mr. Dabrah commended the over 60 Ghanaian companies approved to trade under AfCFTA and noted Ghana's participation in the first guided trade under the agreement as a significant milestone, underscoring the country's commitment to enhancing intra-African trade.