WT/TPR/M/303  
5 April 2017 
(17-1853) Page: 1/38 
Trade Policy Review Body   
14 and 16 February 2017  
  TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
SIERRA LEONE 
MINUTES OF THE MEETING  
Chairperson: Ms Irene Young (Hong Kong, China)  
CONTENTS  
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS  BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .......................  2 
2  OPENING STATEMENT BY  THE REPRESENTATIVE O F SIERRA LEONE  ............................  4 
3  STATEMENT BY THE DIS CUSSANT  ................................ ................................ ................  6 
4  STATEME NTS BY MEMBERS  ................................ ................................ ..........................  8 
5  REPLIES BY THE REPRE SENTATIVE OF SIERRA LEONE  AND ADDITIONAL 
COMMENTS  ................................ ................................ ................................ .....................  26 
6  CONCLUDING REMARKS B Y THE CHAIRP ERSON  ................................ .........................  37 
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies 
provided by Sierra Leone  are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M/ 303/Add.1  and will be available 
online at h ttp://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm.  WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS  BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
1.1.  The second Trade Policy Review of Sierra Leone was held on 14 and 16 February 2017. The 
Chairperson, Ms. Irene Young (Hong Kong, China), welcomed the delegation  of Sierra Leone 
headed by Mr Ibrahim Mansaray, Deputy Minister, Trade and Industry; the delegation from 
Freetown ; and the discussant, H.E. Ambassador Sabine Böhlke -Möller ( Namibia ).  
1.2.  The Chairperson recalled the purpose of the Trade Policy Reviews and the  main elements of 
the procedures for the meeting. The report by Sierra Leone  was co ntained in document 
WT/TPR/G/303/Rev.1  and that of the  WTO Secretariat in WT/TPR/S/303/Rev.1 . 
1.3.  Questions by the following delegations had been submitted in writing before the  deadline: 
China; European Union; Canada; Brazil; United States; and Japan. The following delegation  
submitted written questions after the deadline: Thailand .  
1.4.  The Chairperson sought  Members ' agreement to two requests. First, the United Nations 
Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), as it had  done before, requested to attend some 
upcoming TPRB meetings, as an observ er on an ad hoc basis. So far, Sierra Leone, Jamaica, and 
Paraguay had  confirmed with the Secretariat that they  had no objection to UNIDO 's request. The 
Chairperson propose d that the TPRB granted  UNIDO observer  status for the TPR meetings of 
Sierra Leone, Jamaica, and Paraguay  on an ad hoc basis. It was so agreed. The Secretariat invite d 
the UNIDO re presentative to enter the room.  
1.5.  The second  request was from the WTO 's Advanced Trade Policy Course in English, whose 
participants wished  to attend the  review meet ing as part of their training. The TPRB had  also 
entertained similar requests before. The presence of the Course participants in the room was 
agreed by Members.   
1.6.  At the last TPR meeting in 2005, Members had commended Sierra Leone  for its economic 
stabilization  and structural reforms undertaken since the end of the civil unrest. Members had 
encouraged Sierra Leone to move ahead with structu ral reforms, and to increase infrastructure 
and health -related expenditures with a view to alleviating poverty.  
1.7.  During the review period, Sierra Leone underwent extensive reconstruction, which was 
financed mainly by external aid and expansion of its minin g sector, in particular the trade in iron 
ore. At the same time, several domestic reforms had helped to improve the business environment. 
These include d: a zero -tolerance policy against corruption, simplification of business registration 
procedures, and co nsolidation of the taxation system. Sierra Leone 's tariff reform had already 
been acknowled ged by Members at the last TPR.  For instance, by binding all its tariff lines, 
predictability had been enhanced. During this review period, automation of procedures and 
adoption of new legislation had further enhanced the transparency of Sierra Leone 's customs 
system.  
1.8.  However, Sierra Leone continued to face real constraints in fulfilling its development 
objectives. Outbreak of the Ebola -Virus Disease and the closing o f national borders to contain its 
spread had seriously jeopardized Sierra Leone 's recovery process. Most economic activities, 
including construction, trade, tourism, transport and manufacturing, had all been affected. The 
situation was further exacerbated by the collapse of iron ore prices and the associated fall in 
production, leading to a contraction of real GDP by about 20% in 2015. However, it was 
encouraging to note that the economy had started recovering towards the end of 2015, supported 
by new inves tments.  
1.9.  For many LDCs, trade was an important tool for development.  This was also the case for 
Sierra Leone. Members  had noted at the last TPR that the country 's integration into the 
multilateral trading system had been relatively  slow, and as a result it  had not  fully benefit ted 
from its WTO Membership. Members were pleased to note t hat since then, Sierra Leone had  
established a Permanent Mission to the WTO,  had adopted an export strategy, and  had joined the 
Integrated Framework. Under the Enhanced Integr ated Framework, Sie rra Leone had  obtained 
support for projects in the areas of trade information and tourism. The Chairperson saw these 
developments as a positive response to Members ' comments at the last TPR. However, as some WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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  Members highlighted in their advance questions, compliance with WTO n otifications obligations 
remained  a challenge for Sierra Leone.  
1.10.   Other topics highlighted in the advance questions include d: investment incentives, technical 
barriers to trade, protection of intellectual property righ ts, and the services sector. This TPR would  
provide a good opportunity for Sierra Leone  to provide the information sought, and explain how 
concerns would  be effectively addressed.  
1.11.   As for all TPRs, Members were encouraged to discuss at this meeting issues of interest to 
them and of importance to the multilateral trading system. The Chairperson looked forward to a 
fruitful exchange.  WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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2  OPENING STATEMENT BY  THE REPRESENTATIVE O F SIERRA LEONE (MR IBR AHIM 
MANSARAY ) 
2.1.  Distinguished r epresentatives of Member c ountrie s of the World Trade Organizati on (WTO) , 
the Trade Policy Review Body, I bring you greetings from the Government and people of 
Sierra  Leone.  
2.2.  As the Head of d elegation to Sierra Leone 's second  WTO Trade Policy Review and on behalf of 
the President and the Minister of Trade and Industry, I have the hono ur to deliver on this day, 
14 February 2017, the introductory speech of the opening session of the Trade Policy Review of 
my country.  
2.3.  I would particularly like to express my sincere gratitude to Mr. Roberto Azevedo, 
Director  General of the World Trade Organization, to the WTO Secreta riat and to the Chairperson 
and members of the Trade Policy Review Body for their continued efforts and assistance in the 
preparation and the actual holding of this meeting.  
2.4.  I wou ld like to thank the Ambassador of Namibia, H.E. Madame Sabina Bohlke Moller for 
agreeing to take on the role as discussant on this occasion.  
2.5.  Finally, ou r appreciation goes to all the M embers of the WTO for their obvious interest shown 
to Sierra Leone thr ough their participation in this review and their relevant comments and 
questions submitted with respect to the two reports.  
2.6.  The Government of Sierra Leone has made significant efforts to promote economic 
development but has faced significant setbacks due  to socio -political crises of the 1990 's, the 
outbreak of the Ebola Virus Disease and the plummeting of global prices for iron ore, our primary 
commodity, in 2014.  
2.7.  Shortly after these unprecedented events, the Government of the Republic of Sierra Leone 
has embarked on major reforms, the implementation of which will certainly contribute to shape the 
domestic economy towards growth. This will foster the economic a nd social development of 
Sierra  Leone and will support the process of economic integration in We st Africa (ECOWAS).  
2.8.  Prior to the Ebola Virus Disease and the iron ore shock, the Government of Sierra Leone had 
made considerable progress and restored macroeconomic stability. Real GDP growth stood at 5% 
in 2006 and relatively surpassed the average growt h in Sub -Saharan African by 3% .  
2.9.  Sierra Leone was one of the fastest -growing economies in the world in 2012, driven by the 
onset of iron ore mining production. Double digit GDP growth was achieved in 2012 at 15.2% and 
20.1% in 2013, respectively. The m acroeconomic framework also remained fairly stable with single 
digit inflation rates reaching 7.3% in 2014 and 7.8% in 2015.  
2.10.   With respect to trade data, imports figures stood at US$113 million and exports at 
US$60  million, thus resulting in a trade deficit of  nearly US$60 million.  
2.11.   While positive results have been recorded by Sierra Leone in the harmonization of national 
trade policies and in the implementation of regional agreements, much remains to be done, to 
enable the country recover from the serious setb acks of the Ebola outbreak crisis.  
2.12.   With the signing of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) and the implementation of 
the ECOWAS Common External Tariffs (CET) in the coming weeks, our trade policies would be in 
line with our regional partners to foste r our integration in order to play a more significant role in 
the international trading system.  
2.13.   Since its last review in 2005, and despite several factors, Sierra Leone has nonetheless 
embarked on important and profound reforms and has proceeded to open u p more sectors of its 
economy.  
2.14.   Furthermore, Sierra Leone has rel ative comparative advantage in agriculture and fisheries 
(oceans, weather, l and) but the country has still to fully reap the benefits of this sector which will WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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  offer, inter alia , increased em ployment opportunities and contribute significantly to our foreign 
reserves. The country also has important mineral resources  which are attractive for industry, 
manufacturing, transportation, tourism and energy.  
2.15.   The development of agriculture  which accoun ts for nearly 50% of the GDP, remains an 
important priority sector in the G overnment 's development strategy.  
2.16.   Sierra Leone is a net exporter of a number of agriculture commodities including cocoa, 
coffee, ginger, palm kernels, palm oil and piassava. It is therefore necessary, within the 
framework of Aid for Trade, that Sierra Leone, as a Least Developed Country (LDC), should receive 
special support to the development of value chains for agricultural products and other sectors of 
the economy. In this context , the Enhanced Integrated Framework program me is and will always 
be needed as a catalyst to implement this vision.  
2.17.   In order to sustain these activities, investments are needed in infrastructure to facilitate the 
movement of goods across and beyond our bord ers.  
2.18.   Sierra Leone would like to thank those States that have provided advan ced questions for 
this review. We have endeavo ured to provide responses to these questions but we welcome any 
further clarifications or new questions that Mem ber States might wish to pose.  
2.19.   In this regard, my delegation comprises technical managers and directors of various 
institutions in Sierra Leone, who will provide answers, as appropriate, to any questions that might 
be raised.  
2.20.   Finally, on behalf of the Government of Sierra Leon e, I would  like to express my sincere 
gratitude to the various bilateral and multilateral partners for their technical and financial 
assistance. I would also like to express the wish that the negotiations within the WTO would 
continue to address developmen t issues, with a view to fully integrating, in particular, the LDCs 
into the multilateral trading system, thus contributing, in no small way, to their implementation of 
the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.  WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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3  STATEMENT BY THE DIS CUSSANT  
3.1.  I wish to warmly welcome the delegation of Sierra Leone lead by Honourable Mr. Ibrahim 
Mansaray, Deputy Minister of Trade to their second  WTO Trade Policy Review.  
3.2.  I am honoured to participate in Sierra Leone 's second  Trade Policy Review as a discussant 
and I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the WTO Secretariat and the Government of 
the Republic of Sierra Leone 's comprehensive reports. These reports have given us all an 
opportunity to examine the trade, economic, and investment and sectoral policies of Sierra Le one 
and how they  have developed since the last r eview in 2005.  
Economic environment  
3.3.  Since the civil war in Sierra Leone ended in 2002, the Government of Sierra Leone has been 
working intensively to rebuild the country by undertaking structural reforms to create a firm 
foundation for future economic growth. As a result, Sierra Leone 's economy was among the 
fastest -growing economy in sub -Saharan Africa, where it recorded a real GDP growth of 15% in 
2012 and then 20% in 2013.  
3.4.  However, in 2014, Sierra Leone 's economic growth was abruptly disrupted when the country 
experienced the largest Ebola outbreak in history. The outbreak placed enormous strains on the 
Government resources and capacities, depriving the country of funds needed for infrastructure 
developmen t and resulting in a slowdown in foreign direct investment. This was exacerbated by 
the decline in world commodity prices, mainly "iron ore " significantly reduced the country 's 
declined foreign exchange reserves and further resulted in the closure of two i ron ore mines.  
3.5.  During the period under review, Sierra Leone 's macroeconomic performance had improved, 
real GDP almost doubled from 5.4 trillion to 10.1 trillion Leone, by an annual growth of 8% in 
2013. This performance was on account of the resumption of iron ore mining and infrastructure 
investment.  
3.6.  From the last review in 2005 to 2013, Sierra Leone 's exports increased from 
US$159.0  million to US$1.9 billion, largely supported by mineral exports, especially diamonds and 
iron ore. Sierra Leone 's economic ties with the European Union have been materialised by an 
increased share of its exports to the EU from 24% in 2013 to 48% in 2014. China is the main 
market for the country 's iron ore.  
3.7.  I have noted that Sierra Leone 's fiscal deficit was financed largely b y foreign concessional 
loans a nd domestic securities market. However, this did not reduce the escalating overall deficit 
which expanded from 1.9% of GDP in 2005 to 5.2% of GDP in 2012. So, we wish to encourage the 
Government of Sierra Leone to intensify do mestic revenue collection to offset fiscal deficit and 
reduce borrowing.  
Trade policy measures  
3.8.  It should be pointed out that Sierra Leone is home to 7 million inhabitants and provides 
additional market access to  45 million people through its m embership to  MANO River Union and 
further to more than 300 million people in the Economic Community of West African States 
(ECOWAS). The latter provides Sierra Leone opportunities in areas such as trade and services, 
investments, industrial development,  environment an d tourism, to mention a few.  
3.9.  In addition, Sierra Leone is also eligible for preferential agreements granted by the European 
Union through the Everything But Arms Initiative, and by the United States under the African 
Growth and Opportunity Act. It also ben efits from other unilateral trade preferences granted by 
many other developed countries.  
3.10.   Sierra Leone has been a contracting party to the GATT since May 1961, then a Memb er of 
the WTO since July 1995. Sierra Leone grants at least MFN treatment to all its trading partners and 
benefits from the special and differential treatment provided for by the WTO Agreements. These 
undertakings are necessary to ensuring Sierra Leone 's integration into the multilateral system.  WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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  3.11.   As it was pointed out in the Government rep ort, Sierra Leone continues to experience 
challenges such as supply -side constraints, weak productive capacity, which prevents the country 
from achieving greater integration into the multilateral trading system. I wish to encourage the 
Government to make u se of WTO technical assistance programmes for successfully implementing 
of its WTO obligations, with the view of making trade play a key role in its development strategy.  
Sectoral policy  
3.12.   Sierra Leone has taken massive steps to upgrade its customs and bord er compliance to the 
Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA) in order to streamline processing of imports, 
reduce fees and clearance time. As noted in the report, Sierra Leone still needs to find a solution 
to the current unreliable internet connectivi ty and electricity supply to operate the system.  
3.13.   It was interesting to note that  Sierra Leone had pursued the export diversification strategy 
necessary to foster economic growth. We wish to encourage the Republic of Sierra Leone to make 
use of its huge end owment of natural resources and mineral wealth, through value addition in 
order to create more jobs for its citizens.  
3.14.   Agriculture remains central to Sierra Leone to achieve food security, rural development, and 
improve the livelihood of its citizens. The agricultural sector employs about 75% of the labour 
force, making it the backbone of the economy. In recent years, the production of major crops such 
as rice, cassava, and cocoa has increased substantially, owing to the implementation of policies 
geared to ward increasing productivity and extending cultivated areas. This step is largely 
applauded because it will ensure food security in Sierra Leone.  
3.15.   Furthermore, it was noted in the country report that although Sierra Leone locally produces 
rice for domestic  use and export, it continues to import rice. I , therefore, would lik e to inquire 
about the way the G overnment intends to address this imbalance.   
3.16.   Finally, I wish to , once again , commend the Republic of Sierra Leone for , under difficult 
circumstances , hav ing undertaken economic reforms that had helped to accelerate economic 
growth and reduce poverty. In this line, we encourage Sierra Leone to continue on the path of 
reform in order to tackle the obstacles to competitiveness and diversification, with the vi ew to 
further developing its economy.  
3.17.   I wish Si erra Leone a successful review. I thank you Madam  Chairperson.  WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBER S 
EUROPEAN  UNION  
4.1.  Since its last trade policy review in 2005, the EU notes that Sierra Leone implemented 
reconstruction reform s aimed at stabilizing the economy and ensuring broad -based economic 
growth. Several transport, agriculture, and energy projects were completed and the mining sector 
expanded. However, after the outbreak of the Ebola  virus disease in 2014 combined with the  
decline in world prices of iron ore, the upward trend in economic growth since 2010 halted in 2013 
and declined in 2014.  
4.2.  The EU is pleased to note that new investment in agriculture, resumption of iron ore mining 
in 2016, and ongoing energy reforms are e xpected to support economic recovery in Sierra Leone 
in the medium term.  
4.3.  The EU is one of the main trading and investment cooperation partners of Sierra Leone. Being 
a Least Developed Country (LDC), Sierra Leone benefits from EU support via the "Everythin g But 
Arms" scheme, which offers duty -free and quota -free access to the EU market.  
4.4.  The EU does not have too many concerns to raise. We have submitted some questions and 
we are particularly interested in receiving information on the latest state of play for  the 
implementation of ECOWAS Common External Tariff (CET).  
4.5.  The EU calls on Sierra Leone to ratify the WTO Agreement on Trade Facilitation and to notify 
its category A commitments. Furthermore, we encourage Sierra Leone 's Government to continue 
its trade l iberalization and economic reform efforts.  
4.6.  The EU remains committed to support Sierra Leone 's efforts to face socio -economic 
challenges and is confident that this exercise will help Sierra Leone in carrying out its economic 
reforms in compliance with its international commitments in this forum.  
BRAZIL  
4.7.  The reforms adopted by Sierra Leone in the last ten years have enhanced the reconstruction 
efforts that followed the end of the civil war. The country has experienced concrete advances in 
economic and social terms, which have allowed the reduction of poverty and substantial progress 
in human development, despite the 2014 -2016 outbreak of the Ebola virus disease that brought 
enormous social and economic challenges to the country. We also note the consolidation of 
democracy following the 2012 elections, considered fair and transparent by international 
observers.  
4.8.  We welcome the trade -related reforms undertaken by Sierra Leone in recent years, as well as 
the efforts in streamlining business procedures through the revision and amendment of domestic 
legislation. The Agenda for Prosperity sets an ambitious target for 2035 and includes measures 
aimed at promoting the private sector, addressing infrastructure gaps and improving governance 
and transparency in the public sector. We further commend the Government of Sierra Leone for its 
participation in trade arrangements, such as the Economic Community of West African States 
(ECOWAS) and the Mano River Union (MRU). Those measures will certainly contribute to 
overcoming the  economic challenges faced by the Sierra Leonean economy through the creation of 
a positive environment for business confidence, investments and consumer expenditure.  
4.9.  Turning now to the bilateral domain, the economic relations between Brazil and Sierra Le one 
have much room to grow. The trade flow in 2016 was extremely modest, consisting mostly of 
Brazilian exports of agricultural goods, such as cereals, meat and sugar and imports primarily 
composed of mineral ores.  
4.10.   We are confident that Sierra Leone 's par ticipation in the WTO will remain a positive 
contribution for trade and development. We have submitted a question regarding the Protocol 
amending the TRIPS Agreement, which has recently entered into force and may assist the country 
in overcoming its health  challenges. We thank the delegation for the answer provided.  WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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  UNITED  STATES  
4.11.   The United States extends a warm welcome to Deputy Minister Mansaray and the 
honourable re presentatives of Sierra Leone. Your country has faced more than its share of 
challenges, f rom a civil war that ended in 2002, to the Ebola outbreak in 2014, to the collapse of 
iron ore prices and associated loss of production in 2014 and 2015.  And yet Sierra Leone 's 
economy and its people have proven resilient, with economic growth resuming sin ce the last 
quarter of 2015, supported by new investments in mini ng, agriculture, and fisheries.  I would also 
like to note that Sierra Leone is characterized by strong religious tolerance and has exhibited 
political stability, holding in 2012 its third dem ocratic  election since the civil war. It also enjoys 
plentiful natural resources, large areas of fertile land, and abundant fisheries.  
4.12.   Of course, Sierra Leone still faces many challenges typical of countries at its level of 
development, including poor infr astructure, high energy and transportation costs, scarcity of 
financing, an d weak institutional capacity. We are encouraged to see that the G overnment of 
Sierra Leone has recognized the importance of attracting foreign investment  and diversifying the 
econo my. The G overnment is engaged in significant infrastructure projects and recognizes that 
drawing new foreign investment requires a more s upportive business environment.  It has enacted 
regulatory reforms to simplify the process of starting a business and to  protect the  rights of 
minority investors. In 2016, the Millennium Challenge Corporation, a U.S. Government agency, 
began implementing a four -year, US$44 million threshold program to support policy reforms, build 
institutional capacity, and improve governa nce in the water and electricity sectors.  
4.13.   The TPR report submitted by the G overnment of Sierra Leone indicated that it is developing 
a plan to make greater use of the opportunities presented by the U.S. African Growth and 
Opportunity Act, which we would ve ry much welcome. With U.S. -Sierra Leone two -way goods 
trade valued at approximately US$120 million per year in recent years, we believe that there is 
significant room for growth.  
4.14.   Sierra Leone 's membership in ECOWAS and its adoption this year of that group 's common 
external tariff should help position the country to take advantage of the larger regional market. 
The U.S. Government is working with ECOWAS to promote the free fl ow of goods within the 
region. Sierra Leone 's report states that it has been underta king customs -related reforms and that 
the cabinet approved the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) last September. The TFA is 
expected to enter into force soon and to bring billions of dollars in growth to traders, with much of 
that growth and opportuni ty accruing to least developed country Members. By notifying the WTO 
and following through on that approval as soon as possible, Sierra Leone would be taking an 
important step in signalling  your commitment to facilitating the efficient flow of trade across  your 
borders.  
4.15.   While we commend Sierra Leone for having bound its entire WTO tariff schedule, we note 
that these tariff bindings range as high as 80 %, even though its applied rates are much lower. 
Bindings at prohibitive levels can have a chilling effect o n investment as they create uncertainty on 
the cost of doing business. We would encourage the government to lower the bound rates so that 
they are closer to the rates that Sierra Leone applies under the ECOWAS common external tariff. 
We were also struck by  the high level of other duties and charges the government imposes.  As 
part of its economic planning going forward we hope that the government will look to broad en and 
diversify its tax base. We also request that Sierra Leone keep us informed of any plans to use a 
levy or other trade measures to implement the new African Union peacekeeping fund.  
4.16.   Part of an attractive business climate is strong protec tion of intellectual property. While the 
United States commends Sierra Leone 's intellectual property rights l egislation, the primary goal 
must now be enforcement of those rights, inclu ding through customs screening.  Public awareness 
campaigns about copyright and trademark infringement can also pla y an important role. We hope 
to see Sierra Leone ratify the Berne C onvention, the World Intellectual Property Organization 
("WIPO ")'s Copyright Treaty, and the WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty.  
4.17.   We are looking to Sierra Leone to more fully undertake a number of its WTO obligations, 
such as with respect to the requi rements under the WTO Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade 
to set up a national enquiry point and publish and make notifications of technical regulations.  WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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4.18.   With regard to government procurement, the WTO Secretariat report notes that Sierra 
Leone is nei ther an observer to, nor a member of, the WTO 's Agreement on  Government 
Procurement (GPA). We encourage Sierra Leone to consider becoming an observer to the 
agreement given the efforts it has made to ensure its government procurement regime is 
transparent and ope n to international competition.  Being an observer would provide opportunities 
to engage with GPA Members on government procurement issues more broadly without taking on 
any obligations.  
4.19.   In sum, we commend the G overnment of Sierra Leone for its commi tment to trade and 
investment reform which, along with its commitment to democratic values and peace and stability, 
bodes very well for the future of Sierra Leone and its people.  
4.20.   Again, thank you for all the efforts that have gone into preparing for this r eview, and best 
wishes to your delegation.  
JAPAN  
4.21.   Needless to say, Sierra Leone is an important economic partner in the region.  
4.22.   Japan will make continuous efforts to maintain and further develop the strong ties between 
us. 
4.23.   According to the Secretariat r eport, the Sierra Leone economy had shown robust economic 
growth since the last Trade Policy Review up to 2014. It accomplished remarkable growth rate of 
20.7% in 2013. Although the economy collapsed from 2014 to 2015 due to the Ebola epidemic and 
a decrease in prices of resources, Japan is aware of its gradual recovery of its economy from the 
recession.  
4.24.   Japan positively evaluates the country 's efforts in which the country aims to graduate from 
the Least Developing Country status. Sierra Leone has made great e fforts to overcome the Ebola 
epidemic, promoting sound economic activities of the private sector, and diversifying the economy. 
In order to support its efforts, Japan would like to implement possib le policies as part of TICAD 
VI's follow –up. Japan is ready  to cooperate with the G overnment of Sierra Leone.  
4.25.   Sierra Leone, as one of the original Members of the WTO, has had an interest in maintaining 
the multilateral trading system for better integration into international trade, which Japan 
commends. However, d ue to non -payment of its contribution to the WTO, the country cannot 
benefit from some technical assistance, at this moment. Japan expects the country to actively 
participate and contribute in the WTO activities.  
4.26.   Sierra Leone has joined several regional tr ade agreements including the ECOWAS. Japan 
hopes that these RTAs and FTAs will both complement and contribute to the multilateral trading 
system.  
4.27.   Now, let me make some brief comments on specific issues.  
4.28.   In recent years, since its last Trade Policy Review,  the Government has undertaken 
measures to improve its investment framework and attract FDI. Those reforms, together with 
abundant natural resources, had successfully attracted foreign direct investment until the Ebola 
epidemic. We know that the Government  of Sierra Leone granted its Reconnaissance Permit of 
petroleum to several foreign operators in 2013, which is noteworthy. Japan understands the 
impact of the epidemic of Ebola was huge, but the country 's efforts toward attracting FDI will 
surely improve i ts economy. Other than measures related to FDI, Japan believes that training 
workers and supplying stable electricity are two of the most important policies to recover its 
economy.  
4.29.   As a result of the Uruguay Round, Sierra Leone bound all tariff lines, whic h is highly 
appreciated. However, Japan is concerned with its unpredictable tariff change. The country 
frequently revised its effective tariff rate, which results in an unpredictable situation for importers 
and exporters. One more thing is about the CET. S ierra Leone, as one of the Members of the 
ECOWAS, implemented the CET as of January 2017. Japan expects Sierra Leone to improve tariffs WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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  and to be more transparent and predictable when implementing the CET, bearing in mind that this 
implementation must be f ully consistent with the existing WTO Agreements and the Country 's 
commitments. Japan would also like to draw its attention to the point that Sierra Leone must 
implement the CET within the bound rate, regarding exceptional items.  
4.30.   In conclusion, I would lik e to express our strong wish to continue cooperation between 
Sierra Leone and Japan.  
CHINA  
4.31.   China is pleased to witness the progress made by Sierra Leone in its economic and social 
development. The Sierra Leone Government and people have made remarkable eff orts to shuck off 
the adverse impact of the Ebola Disease and other natural disasters. Their achievements in 
economic structural reform, improving business environment and reducing poverty are impressing.  
4.32.   Meanwhile, further development of Sierra Leone is still facing certain bottlenecks. Weak 
infrastructure, high production costs, unreliable supply of energy at high prices, and limited access 
to financing still constitute barriers for the development of Sierra Leone. Improved domestic 
governance, enhanced international cooperation, increased technical assistance, and a more 
development -oriented global trading system, would be essential to help addressing these 
obstacles.  
4.33.   In December last year, President XI Jinping of China met President Koroma in Beijing, and 
both countries agreed to establish a comprehensive strategic partnership of cooperation. China has 
long been an important economic partner of Sierra Leone. As the largest export destination and 
source of FDI of Sierra Leone, China is committed to promo ting our bilateral cooperation to a new 
height in the coming future, especially in the area of infrastructure, mining, industrialization, 
agriculture and other fields.  
4.34.   Meanwhile, we expect Sierra Leone to take further actions to facilitate trade and forei gn 
investment.  
4.35.   The Doha Ministerial Declaration, as well as the Nairobi Ministerial Declaration clearly stated 
that we shall "continue to make positive efforts designed to ensure that developing countries, and 
especially the least -developed among them, sec ure a share in the growth of world trade 
commensurate with the need s of their economic development ". The TPR of Sierra Leone shed a 
light on the specific difficulties of developing members, especially the LDCs during the slow and 
uneven recovery, which des erve our special attention.  
4.36.   MC11 is only less than 10 months ahead. As a Sierra Leone proverb goes: "One finger can 't 
pick up a stone ". We must make joint efforts to strengthen the multilateral trading system. China 
is ready to work even more close ly with  Sierra Leone and other M embers to improve the 
inclusiveness and equality of the multilateral trading system, so as to fulfilling the mandate of the 
previous ministerial decisions, and keeping the centrality of development in all WTO works.  
INDIA  
4.37.   As per t he Secretariat 's report since the last review Sierra Leone has implemented 
reconstruction reforms through its Poverty Reduction Strategy a nd expanded its mining sector. We 
commend th e Government of Sierra Leone for the initiatives undertaken as part of the  strategy to 
investment for building infrastructure, developing the private sector and extend ing access to social 
services. Further in 2013 , the Government of Sierra Leone launched the Agenda for prosperity with 
a view to contribute to inclusive growth, im prove governance and transparency. As a result of 
these reforms , since the last review , the GDP of Sierra Leone expanded rapidly till 2013 with an 
annual growth rate of around 8 %. However, we also note that the challenging global environment, 
the outbreak of the Ebola epidemic and collapse in global iron ore prices led to contraction o f the 
economy in 2014 and 2015.  The major challenges for Sierra Leone include addressing poverty, 
building infrastructure, skill development, diversifying the econo my and addr essing 
unemployment.  We also note that the Government of Sierra Leone is making continuous efforts to 
address these challenges and to diversify the economy which is dependent on agriculture and 
mining.  WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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4.38.   India and Sierra Leone share warm, friendly and close  bilateral relations. The total bilateral 
trade between  the two countries stood at US$115.85 million in 2015. India is providing assistance 
to Sierra Leone in many areas including agriculture, telecommunications, civic infrastructure and 
new and renewable energy under the develo pment partnership cooperation. India has also been 
offering humanitarian assistance to Sierra Leone for comb ating the Ebola Virus Disease. With a 
view to assisting Sierra Leone in its socio -economic development, India extended conces sional 
loans through Lines of Credit (LoC) worth US$ 100 million for various projects in the country. These 
include : (i) Development of Commercial Agriculture; (ii) Rehabilitation of Telecom Sector in Sierra 
Leone; (iii) Rehabilitation of Six Potable Water Projects; and (iv) A Solar Street Lighting P roject. 
Another two LOCs of US$30 million and US$ 15 million were approved for Irrigation Development 
and Expansion of Rehabilitation of existing Potable Water Facilities respectively in Sierra Leone. 
Government o f Sierra Leone has also signed a fresh  Line of Credit Agreement of US$ 78 million 
with the EXIM Bank of India in August 2016 for establishment of transmission sub -stations in 
Sierra Leone.  
4.39.   For capacity building in human resources India has been regularly of fering slots to 
professionals from Sierra Leone under the India Technical Economic Cooperation (ITEC) 
programme. There is considerable potential to strengthen bilateral trade and investment between 
both countries in sectors like drugs & pharmaceuticals, te xtiles, mach ine tools and mining industry.  
4.40.   Sierra Leone is blessed with abundant natural resources including favourable climate, fertile 
soil and mineral resources such as diamonds, bauxite and iron ore.  Given these resources , the 
country has tremendous po tential for e conomic growth and development.  To conclude, we look 
forward to working with the authorities of Sierra Leone in further expanding our trade and 
investment ties for mutual benefit. We wish the delegation of Sierra Leone a productive and 
success ful TPR.  
SINGAPORE  
4.41.   Since its last review in 2005, Sierra Leone 's economy grew significantly until the Ebola 
epidemic struck in 2014. We are glad that Sierra Leone has overcome the Ebola outbreak and its 
economy is also gradually recovering. Sierra Leone 's economic diversification into agriculture, 
construction and services sectors helps to reduce its dependence on the mining sector and opens 
up new g rowth opportunities. Continued G overnment efforts, backed by sound macroeconomic 
fundamentals and policies, w ill be crucial in Sierra Leone 's journey towards fulfilling its Agenda for 
Prosperity and attaining middle -income status by 2035.  
4.42.   Trade will play a key role. We welcome the various initiatives towards removing trade 
distorting practices, developing a tran sparent trade regime, establishing and developing necessary 
infrastructure, human capital and skills. Trade facilitative measures, in particular, the recently 
established Automated System for Customs Data, which replaced the manual customs clearance 
system , will contribute to Sierra Leone 's integration into the global trading system. We welcome 
the Cabinet 's approval of the ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) last September. 
We strongly encourage Sierra Leone to quickly submit its ac cepta nce of the TFA to the WTO.  
4.43.   We encour age further efforts to liberaliz e markets and enhance transparency and 
predictability of Sierra Leone 's trade regime. We urge Sierra Leone to reconsider frequent revisions 
of its applied tariff regime, as it affects pred ictability of applied rates. In the area of export 
restrictions and licens ing, we strongly encourage the G overnment to regularly review the necessity 
of such restrictions with a view to ensuring free, unhindered movement of exports.  
4.44.   Given that close to ha lf of the G overnment annual budget is spent on public procurement, 
Sierra Leone may wish to consider being an Observer to the Government Procurement Agreement 
(GPA), with a view towards acceding to it. We also encourage Sierra Leone to fulfil its WTO 
notification obligations, especially those concerning SPS and TBT measures. The WTO 's technical 
assistance and capacity building programmes could help Sierra Leone better integrate into the 
multilateral trading system. We commend the important role played by Am bassador Yvette 
Stevens as Chair of the Enhanced Int egrated Framework (EIF) Board.  WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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  4.45.   The Singapore delegation looks forward to continuing our excellent cooperation with the 
Sierra Leone Mission in Geneva, led by Ambassador Stevens, towards our common goal o f 
upholding the multilateral trading system. We wish Sierra Leone  every success in its second  TPR.  
CANADA  
4.46.   Since its last Review in 2005, Sierra Leone has experienced some key economic successes 
while, at the same, facing a number of significant challenges . Not only was the country 's economic 
expansion jeopardized by the global downturn in mineral prices, but Sierra Leone has also had to 
fight against the spread of the Ebola virus. Canada applauds Sierra Leone 's resourcefulness and 
resilience in the face of  this adversity. Sierra Leone has overcome this tragedy and is now looking 
at a brighter future for its citizens.  
4.47.   Since 2005, Sierra Leone 's business environment has improved, due to the implementation 
of commendable structural reforms, as well as progres s in governance and development. As an 
example, Sierra Leone became compliant with the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative 
(EITI) in 2014 and established a public online repository disseminating information about revenues 
generated from mining co mpanies. Other notable improvements include a reinforced policy against 
corruption, simplified business registration procedures, and the launch of a fast -track commercial 
court to help enforce contracts.  
4.48.   We welcome these positive changes. Canada and Sierr a Leone are both nations with 
important natural resources who share the belief that our growth must be progressive and 
inclusive. The mining sector has been Sierra Leone 's main source of export revenues and a 
fundamental pillar of your Agenda for Prosperit y. Ensuring that the Government builds on its 
efforts to increase transparency and accountability will help ensure that mineral resources can 
support economic growth and social development.  
4.49.   Notwithstanding these important steps forward, the business enviro nment in Sierra remains 
challenging and many companies who departed the country following the Ebola outbreak have yet 
to return. Allow me to highlight three areas that would strengthen Sierra Leone 's economic 
potential.  
4.50.   First, improving power generation an d distribution capacity is one of the most important 
issues faced by foreign businesses in Sierra Leone. Failure to make progress in this area also 
compromises the results achieved in other areas, including the Automated System for Customs 
Data, which rema ins affected by inconsistent power supply.  
4.51.   Second, the fight against corruption must continue. Corruption is a key element in economic 
under -performance and a major obstacle to poverty alleviatio n. The Government 's stated 
zero-tolerance policy and the esta blishment of the Anti -Corruption Commission (ACC) are welcome 
first steps, but more needs to be done. Tackling corruption will create an environment that attracts 
more Foreign Direct Investment in support of economic development.  
4.52.   Finally, we also note that  Sierra Leone has yet to ratify the WTO Agreement on Trade 
Facilitation (TFA), which will modernize and simplify customs and border procedures and lo wer 
trade costs. Ratifying would send a positive message to businesses and the international 
community abou t Sierra Leone 's support for open markets and international trade.  
4.53.   Canada supports the Agenda for Prosperity 's stated focus on sustainable and inclusi ve 
growth. Now more than ever, G overnments have to pursue domestic policies aimed at alleviating 
poverty, shoring up the middle class and providing good jobs for young people integrating the 
workforce. In order to obtain domestic support for an open soc iety, G overnments must work hard 
to address the population 's fears and concerns about trade, including with r espect to fair income 
distribution and real opportunities for small and medium -sized businesses to engage in the global 
economy. Sierra Leone 's establishment of a Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency in 
2016 is a step in the right direction and an example of this kind of sound domestic policy.  
4.54.   With the general elections coming up in late 2017, Canada would like to encourage the 
Government of Sierra Leone to remain focused on creating a favourable business environment that 
will enable the creation  of wealth in an inclusive fashion.  WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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4.55.   I wish the Sierra Leonean delegation success in its efforts to lay the foundation for an open 
and diversified economy and we thank you for the opportunity to participat e in this trade policy 
review.  
BENIN ON BEHALF  OF THE LDCS  
4.56.   Sierra Leone's economy is striving courageously to recover from the social and humanitarian 
problems it has had to face. Since its first trade policy review, the Government of Sierra Leone has 
achieved progress by introducing legislative, regulator y and institutional reforms aimed at raising 
the country to "inclusive, green, middle income" status by 2035, eradicating poverty and 
stabilizing the unemployment rate at less than 5%.  
4.57.   The Government of Sierra Leone also took steps to bring its policies in to line with WTO 
rules, inter alia by binding all its tariff lines at ceiling rates between 30% and 80%.  
4.58.   Thanks to these different reforms and actions, GDP has practically doubled, rising from 
5,400 billion leones in 2005 to 10,100 billion in 2013, an annu al growth rate of 8%. The Sierra 
Leonean economy experienced double digit growth in 2012 and 2013, thanks among other things 
to the diversification of its exports.  
4.59.   The delegation of Benin congratulates Sierra Leone for its initiatives aimed at the structur al 
transformation and diversification of its economy, increased productivity and the promotion of 
innovation led growth.  
4.60.   The Government of Sierra Leone also strengthened its trade relations with its leading 
partners at the bilateral, regional and multilate ral levels. The different preferential agreements it 
has concluded testify to the efficiency of its strategy of integration in the multilateral trading 
system. This commitment to the multilateral trading system is evident in its efforts to support free 
trade as well as inclusive social and economic development, and in the fact that in September 
2016, it deposited with the WTO its instruments of acceptance of the WTO Agreement on Trade 
Facilitation.  
4.61.   On behalf of the LDC Group, the delegation of Benin would l ike to invite the North South and 
South South development partners to continue their support for Sierra Leone's socio economic 
development and for its efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.  
4.62.   Trade -related technical assistance t o Sierra Leone, particularly under the Enhanced 
Integrated Framework programme (EIF) and Aid for Trade (AfT), should be expanded in view of 
the efforts to promote socio economic development through productive and export capacity 
building, increased growth,  and poverty reduction.  
4.63.   The Beninese delegation would like to take this opportunity to thank and congratulate 
Ambassador Yvette Stevens for her important contribution to the multilateral trade negotiations 
and to the promotion of LDC priorities, and for th e active role she played during her term as 
Chairperson of the EIF Board.  
KINGDOM  OF MOROCCO  ON BEHALF  OF THE AFRICAN  GROUP  
4.64.   It is a great pleasure for the African Group to participate, today, in this trade policy review 
of Sierra Leone which, I am convince d, is an opportunity for Members of our Organization to take 
stock of the economic and trade reforms of our friend and fellow nation.  
4.65.   Sierra Leone is a least developed country (LDC) with a relatively young population. 
Agriculture is the backbone of its eco nomy.  
4.66.   Since its last trade policy review in 2005, Sierra Leone has pursued its reconstruction 
efforts. In recent years, this has enabled the country to achieve economic stability and ensure 
broad based growth.  
4.67.   Over the period 2005 2016, Sierra Leone implem ented some important initiatives and 
reforms in order to increase the transparency and effectiveness of its trade policy, improve the WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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  business climate, and spur domestic performance in private -sector competitiveness and 
investment.  
4.68.   In this connection, a nu mber of incentives have been offered to foreign as well as local 
investors to encourage them to explore and invest in Sierra Leone, especially in the areas of 
agriculture, tourism, fisheries, oil and gas, energy infrastructure, communications and transport . 
4.69.   Sierra Leone recognizes the many opportunities that exist at the international level to 
enhance its trading position. It has therefore participated in numerous initiatives, including 
regional programmes such as the New Partnership for Africa's Developmen t; ECOWAS and the 
Mano River Union (MRU); and the increasingly expanding non -reciprocal preferential trade 
agreements that are made available by, or negotiated with, its developed trading partners.  
4.70.   Sierra Leone's interests, like those of the African Group,  fall predominantly within the DDA 
framework. Naturally, the country also supports the strengthening of technical assistance 
programmes in favour of developing countries and LDCs in several WTO fields, a vision broadly 
shared by the African Group member co untries.  
4.71.   Sierra Leone continues to embark on reforms to support free trade and economic 
development. Its huge endowment of natural resources, including its mineral wealth, is beginning 
to provide support to its infrastructural development. Its quest to dev elop its private sector, 
especially small and medium enterprises (SME's), its progress with regard to the ease of doing 
business and the economic environment, and its political stability show clearly that Sierra Leone is 
now ready to open to the world in t erms of business.  
4.72.   Lastly, the need to support Sierra Leone to become more competitive cannot be over 
emphasized. The support of its development partners and investors is also needed to implement 
its trade policies and strategies.  
MONTENEGRO  
4.73.   Montenegro woul d like to associate itself with the statement of the European Union.  
4.74.   Montenegro notes the challenges that Sierra Leone has faced in recent years with the 
economy being seriously affected by both the outbreak of Ebola epidemic and collapse in global 
iron or e prices in 2014 and 2015, as well as the challenges associated w ith post -conflict 
development.  
4.75.   Nevertheless, Montene gro wishes to congratulate the G overnment of Sierra Leone on both 
its economic performance until the Ebola crisis commenced and on successf ully conducting two 
successive parliamentary and presidenti al elections in 2007 and 2012. In this regard, as the 
Government of Sie rra Leone 's report notes, macro economic performance had improved 
tremendously until 2014, with real GDP almost doubling from L e 5.3 trillion in 2005 to Le 
10.1 trillion in 2013, with an annual growth rate of 8.0%. Securing such a long period of peace is 
also a very important achievement.  
4.76.   Of particular interest to Montenegro is the growth Sierra Leone has experienced in the 
tourism sector since 2005. As the Secretariat notes, the tourism sector 's contribution to GDP in 
Sierra Leone  since 2006 has been around 7%.  In monetary terms, the tourism sector generated 
US$42 million in 2012, which is an impressive figure. Montenegro notes t hat Sierra Leone has 
excellent assets for tourism in terms of beaches, beauti ful scenery and a rich culture.  As a State 
that is heavily reliant on tourism, Montenegro wishes Sierra Leone the best in developing this area 
of its economy.  
4.77.   Montenegro notes th e challenges in the fisheries sector highlighted in the Government 's 
report. The sector is mainly challenged by the illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing (IUU), 
which is estimated to cause an annual revenue loss of US$30 million. In the context of cu rrent 
discussions on fisheries in the WTO, this example underlines even more the importance of 
technical support for the countries and local communities struggling to fight IUU in order to meet 
international standards.  WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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4.78.   In addition, Montenegro notes that S ierra Leone has not yet fully ratified the WTO Trade 
Facilitation Agreement. However, the authorities acknowledged that the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement would offer benefits in terms of reduced time and trading costs, but that considerable 
investment in in frastructure would be needed. We look forward to welcoming Sierra Leone to the 
TFA as we believe that the TFA would help the Government 's important objectives to diversify 
economy and to reach mid -level income by 2035.  
4.79.   Finally, Montenegro is looking forwar d to continuing excellent and constructive engagement 
with Sierra Leone and my distinguished colleague Ambassador Yvette Stevens who has already 
made significant contribution and secured a prominent place for her country in the international 
community of G eneva.  
4.80.   On a personal note, I lived and volunt eered in Sierra Leone in 2007. I have a great affection 
and respect for the country – particularly in view of hardships and challenges that it has 
experienced but, also, the resilience and many talents of its p eople. My delegation wishes 
Sierra  Leone prosperous future and every success in its second Trade policy review.  
THE SEPARATE  CUSTOMS  TERRITORY  OF TAIWAN,  PENGHU,  KINMEN  AND  MATSU  
4.81.   As we can see from the reports, it is evident that the G overnment of Sierra L eone has made 
substantial trade policy efforts and reforms since its first trade policy review in 2005, resulting in 
boosting economic activities and positive economic growth. We also commend Sierra Leone to 
carry out a series of legislative reforms to enh ance better business and investment environment 
for foreign investors. We encourage the country to keep on necessary reforms of it institutional 
and legal framework on the basis of transparency, predictability and sustainable development, to 
fulfil the obj ective of inclusive growth set out in the 2013 "Agenda for Prosperity ". 
4.82.   Sierra Leone 's economy has seriously suffered from the outbreak of Ebola epidemic in 2015. 
In response to the internati onal efforts against Ebola, my G overnment has played a supportive  role 
by contributing US$1 million budget and 100,000 sets of personal protective equipment. Moreover, 
in 2015, we established a joint training course to train medical personnel in the Asia -Pacific region 
how to combat the Ebola virus.  
4.83.   On the bilateral fro nt, the trade flow and economic cooperati on between Sierra Leone and 
my G overnment may not be so significant, yet we are willing to search for opportunities to expand 
our trade volume in fields of agricultural, mining and indust rial products. In addition, my 
Government looks forward to possible cooperation under the framework of the WTO Aid -for-Trade 
scheme, as well as other fields in the WTO.  
GHANA  ON BEHALF  OF ECOWAS  
4.84.   Ghana attaches great importance to its relations with Sierra Leone which is based on 
historical and cultural ties dating back to pre -independence and which continues to grow from 
strength to strength.  
4.85.   My delegation recognizes that Sierra Leone, being a least developed country (LDC), and 
coming out of fragile post -conflict and post -Ebola virus disease (EVD) situation, has achieved 
significant gains in recent years; in stabilizing the economy and ensuring broad -based growth with 
economic growth reaching 20.7% in 2013, arising from the mining sector, particul arly, from iron 
ore extraction.  
4.86.   We furt her note with appreciation that since the first Trade Policy Review, Sierra Leone has 
carried out a series of legislative reforms with a view to enhancing the business environment to 
make it conducive to attract Foreign Direct Investment, including: the en actment of the Business 
Registration Act, 2007, the Investment and Export Promotion Agency Act 2007, the Companies 
Act, 2009 and the companies (Amendment) Law, 2014 as well as the Anti -Corruption Act, 2008 to 
fight graft, among others.  
4.87.   Sierra Leone 's huge endowment of natural resources including its mineral wealth is 
beginning to provide support to its infrastructural development.  Like many countries in the 
sub-region, agriculture remains the backbone of Sierra Leone 's economy, employing about 75% of WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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  the la bour force and contributing over 50% to GDP, with rice and cassava as the two major crops. 
Also, Sierra Leone is rich in minerals such as gold, diamond, bauxite, rutile, and iron ore. The 
contribution of the tourism sector including its beaches, tropical e nvironment and scenery, the 
diversity of its wildlife, and its cultural herit age is equally worthy of note.  
4.88.   As a member of the ECOWAS, we have witnessed Sierra Leone 's participation in regional 
integration initiatives that enable manufacturing industries to take advantage of the larger regional 
ECOWAS market, and expect that the Common External Tariff (CET) which was to be implemented 
by 1 January 2017 is on course.  
4.89.   Let me also commend Sierra Leone for its comprehensive national debt law, setting out the 
framework for public sector borrowing at all levels of Government for effective public debt 
management practices as debt Sustainability has been the bane  of many developing countries.  
4.90.   As agriculture, the largest sector of the economy, is gradually ceding i ts dominance in 
favour of the industrial sector, Sierra Leone should expand its manufacturing base which remains 
narrow with a concentration on a few commodities. We trust that with the support of development 
partners it can remove the major infrastructura l and market constraints that limit the sector 's 
growth. Also worrying is the fact that the services sector is declining due to the commencement of 
iron ore mining.  
4.91.   Sierra Leone replaced its pre -shipment inspection system with a destination inspection 
system after the former terminated in 2009. We are happy to recall that during this migration, at 
the invitation of the then Minister for Trade and Industry, Dr Konte, Ghana was to brief the 
Cabinet sub -Committee on Trade and Industry on its destination progr amme. I note with humility 
that I was a member of the two Member s delegation that briefed the Cabinet sub -Committee, as 
part of the migration process.  
4.92.   As the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, zeros towards implementation, Ghana calls on 
Sierra Leone to in tensify its efforts to ratify the Agreement as well as notify its list of ca tegory A, B 
and C commitments.  
4.93.   In closing, w e would like to thank H.E. Mrs. Sabine Böhlke Möller, Ambassador and 
Permanent Representative for Namibia, for providing useful insight s and eloquent analysis as 
Discussant which has  added great substance to this r eview and to you, Your Excellency Irene 
Young, for the able manner you have conducted this meeting.  
LESOTHO  
4.94.   We align ourselves with the statement made by Benin on behalf of the LDCs and the 
statement delivered by Morocco on behalf of the African Group.  
4.95.   We note with great satisfaction the progress which Sierra Leone has ac hieved since the last 
review especially in the light that the country had to contend with the outbreak of the Ebola Virus 
Disease in 2013. In this regard , we commend the Government and people of Sierra Leone for the 
resilience in the midst of this crisis.  
4.96.   The legislative reforms which Sierra Leone has embarked upon since the last review bear 
testimony to its commi tment to become a middle level income by 2035 and a donor nation where 
extreme poverty would have been eradicated in accordance with its Agenda for Prosperity. 
Amongst others we note: the Business Registration Act, 2007, the Anti -Corruption Act, 2008 
aimed  at fighting graft, the Bankruptcy Act, 2009, and the Debt Management Act, 2011 which 
provides for the management of the public debt of Sierra Leone.  
4.97.   More importantly, we take note of the efforts undertaken by Sierra Leone in facilitating the 
private sect or-led growth including the fast -track commercial court, the Credit Reference Bureau, 
the Corporate Affairs Commission and the revised legislation of company activities. Furthermore 
we recognize the initiatives Sierra took in the areas of standards, the im portance of which cannot 
be overemphasized. Sierra Leone has also streamlined procedures for registration of companies 
through the establishment of the One -Stop Shop, which is a significant milestone in facilitating the 
ease of doing business in the countr y. WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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4.98.   We, nonetheless , observe that Sierra Leone like other LDCs continues to face the perennial 
challenges in relation to supply -side constraints. Despite a variety of market access avenues 
offered both at the multilateral level and elsewhere, it has not bee n possible for the country to 
fully utilize these opportunities. As such , my delegation supports the call by Sierra Leone to be 
assisted in its noble quest to overcome the hurdles which constrain it from fully benefiting from the 
spoils of the multilateral  trading system.  
SRI LANKA  
4.99.   Going through the reports by the Government of Sierra Leone as well as the WTO 
Secretariat, my delegation is pleased to note the rapid recovery being achieved by the economy of 
Sierra Leone, after the prolonged civil conflict and  the Ebola Virus Disease which adversely 
reflected in the economic performance of the country. We are pleased to note the current 
developments in the new investments in agriculture, the resumption of iron ore mining, and 
reforms in the energy sector. We be lieve that sound and constructive economic policies with the 
target of diversifying the country 's exports will contribute towards the positive developments in the 
economy.  
4.100.   The import duty preferences granted under the EBA (Everything but Arms) Scheme, the  
flexibilities granted under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and other unilateral 
trade preferences granted by many other developed countries will also help to develop the 
economic performance of the country. We congratulate the Government of  Sierra Leone with 
appreciation, for their initiative on "Agenda for Prosperity " which was launched in 2013, setting the 
pathway to middle -income status by 2035. My delegation also notes with great interest the 
Government of Sierra Leones 's zero tolerant p olicy on corruption. We all know corruption in many 
countries is a great challenge on development.  
4.101.   My delegation welcomes Sierra Leone 's continued commitment to the multilateral trading 
system and we believe Sierra Leone will ratify the Trade Facilitation Agreement in near future 
furthering their commitments to the multilateral trading system.  
4.102.   The able leadership and the dynamic role played by the Ambassador, Madam Yvette 
Stevens and her team in Geneva in proactively engaging in ongoing activities of WTO i s highly 
commendable.  
ZAMBIA  
4.103.   Zambia,  like Sierra Leone,  is an LDC and in many aspects, can relate to some of the 
challenges faced by Sierra Leone that constrain LDC 's ability to effectively integrate into the 
multilateral trading system. As LDCs, we face s everal challenges such as weak infrastructure, 
human capital development, high production costs, limited access to financing, and unreliable 
supply of energy as well as the high costs associated with accessing it.  
4.104.   As it has been highlighted in the two com mendable and comprehensive reports prepared 
by the Government of Sierra Leone  and that prepared by the WTO Secretariat, as well as from the 
responses provided today, it is very pleasing to note that Sierra Leone has remained on track in 
implementing struct ural reforms as well as made significant progress in the areas of governance 
and human development which have contributed in stabilizing the economy and ens uring 
broad -based growth.  
4.105.   Even with the negative effects of the recent Ebola virus epidemic that aff ected the region, 
Sierra Leone has continued on her path of restructuring particularly in areas of customs and tax 
administration, as well as the legal framework for business. Her continued active participation in 
the Ec onomic Community of West Africa  has helped to address infrastructural deficiencies and 
other bottlenecks faced in the region.  
4.106.   These reforms have helped the country to make significant strides in its economic and 
trade performance as noted by projected positive average growth rates during the  review period. 
My delegation therefore wishes to commend the Government of Sierra Leone for the efforts 
undertaken during this review period.  WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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  4.107.   We do recognize that Sierra Leone would not have been able to make these significant 
strides without the financia l support of the various cooperating partners. My delegation therefore 
wishes to extend gratitude to cooperating partners that have played a significant role in 
complementing the efforts undertaken by the Government of Sierra Leone.  
MALI 
4.108.   My delegation woul d like to thank and congratulate the authorities of Sierra Leone for the 
clarity and precision of the trade policy status report that our friend and fellow country has just 
presented.  
4.109.   We note with satisfaction that since its last trade policy review in 200 5, Sierra Leone has 
not relaxed its efforts.  
4.110.   Above all, my delegation welcomes the significant economic and trade reforms introduced 
by the Government of Sierra Leone, the results of which have been remarkable in spite of a 
particularly difficult environme nt. 
4.111.   The country deserves to be commended for its resilience in the face of one of the greatest 
pandemics in recent history, namely the Ebola virus disease pandemic of 2014, which it was able 
to conquer.  
4.112.   My delegation has noted with considerable interest th e significant steps taken by the 
Government of Sierra Leone to enhance the transparency and efficiency of its trade policy and to 
improve the business climate, make investments more attractive, and fully exploit its economic 
growth and development potentia l. 
4.113.   Mali greatly appreciates its excellent relations with Sierra Leone, political as well as 
economic and commercial. Our countries are working towards the consolidation of the common 
economic area, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), wi th a view to greater 
integration.  
4.114.   Mali encourages the Government of Sierra Leone to continue with its reforms and to 
promote intra -community trade as well as South South cooperation.  
4.115.   In conclusion, I would like to pay a tribute to H.E. Ambassador Yvette St evens for her role 
as head of the Sierra Leonean delegation in Geneva, her remarkable commitment, and her 
exceptional contribution to the discussions taking place at the WTO and in other multilateral 
forums in Geneva in defence of the interests of her coun try and of Africa.  
4.116.   Finally, I would like to endorse the statement made by Morocco on behalf of the African 
Group, and by Benin on behalf of the LDCs.  
UGANDA  
4.117.   We ally ourselves with the statements made by Morocco for the Afric an Group  and Benin 
on behalf of the LDCs.  
4.118.   It is important and pleasing to note the efforts made by the Government of Sierra Leone to 
improve on the country 's economic development. This is despi te the occurrence of many 
socio-economic challenges. We do acknowledge the fact that the incide nce of Ebola created a big 
socio-political and economic challenge. We now breathe the air of relief to know that Ebola was 
eventually brought under control, partly because of the resilience of the people of Sierra Leone, 
and also due to the support of the international community in the fight against Ebola.  
4.119.   The Government of Sierra Leone is now well positioned to tackle  economic challenges it is 
facing  especially in the areas of trade. As an LDC, Sierra Le one, like many other least developed 
countries, needs  to take advantage of the existence of such Organizations like  the WTO and 
affiliated institutions like EIF and ITC to undertake measures that will enable it attain further 
economic progress. The country should focus on development oriented projects and di versification 
of the services sector like tourism and others, for the meaningful economic growt h. Furthermore, WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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Sierra Leone ma y need to harness the assistance of international donor agencies, and financial 
institutions like the African Development Bank and  the World Bank Group to achieve this. We 
recommend that the Government comes up with well strategized and articulated domestic policy 
reforms which will create conducive environment to improve on the agricultural and mineral export 
products by value addit ion processes of agro -manufacturing and mineral dressing,  and best 
practice services provision.  
NIGERIA  
4.120.   Nigeria is happy to note from the Secretariat report that Sierra Leone has been able to 
achieve a reasonable and successful level of progress despite th e impact of both p ost-conflict and 
post E bola virus disease situation. The report also pointed out that since the last review, the 
business environment of Sierra Leone has improved as a result of structural reforms and progress 
in governance and human deve lopment supported by a substantial inflow of external aid. We also 
note from the same report that Sierra Leone has expanded its mining sector through the 
production and export of iron ore, boosting the country 's real GDP growth to 20.7 percent in 2013. 
Despite the challenges faced by Sierra Leone, recovery has started towards the end of 2015, with 
the new investment in Agriculture, resumption of mining and the reforms in the energy sector are 
expected to support the recovery.  
4.121.   My delegation is impressed by t he Sierra Leone 's determination to promote economic 
reforms through its Poverty Reduction Strategy policy instruments that aimed at laying down the 
foundation for broad -based economic growth, particularly through the expansion of mining sector. 
We urge Sie rra Leone to continue to pursue the effort that will lay a solid foundation for its broad -
based economic growth that will ultimately uplift the living s tandard of Sierra Leoneans.  
4.122.   As pointed out in the Secretariat report, Sierra Leone like Nigeria has cult ural heritage and 
nature reserves as its main tourist attraction. The sector has not escaped the effects of 
long-decade political instability, and some of the tourist attractions remai n undeveloped, the 
outbreak of E bola virus disease severely impacted the  sector. We welcome the strategy the 
Government of Sierra Leone is making to promote the concept of "root tourism " in restoring some 
historic sites that include the Bunce Islands facilities and the effort to promote sustainable tourism 
as a means of econom ic growth an d socio -cultural integration.   
4.123.   To assist Sierra Leone overcome its challenges, we call on it s trading partners and all WTO 
Members to continue to support Sierra Leone in ensuring that the recorded progress they so far 
realised is su stained and  improved upon.  
4.124.   In conclusion, Nigeria wishes to express support to Sierra Leone in all her developmental 
and aspirations to ensure that the country overcomes its developmental challenges.   
KENYA  
4.125.   Kenya and Sierra Leone enjoy cordial political and economic  ties. Kenya was among the 
African countries that supported Sierra Leone effort to address Ebola outbreak.  
4.126.   We note from the r eport that since the last review, Sierra Leone experienced impressive 
economic growth registering growth rate of 20.7% in 2013. Th is growth was driven mainly by the 
resumption of iron ore mining and scaling up of infrastructure investments. However, this positive 
trend was reversed due to the outbreak of Ebola and the collapse in global commodity prices 
leading to the contraction of the economy by 20.6% in 2015.  
4.127.   Agriculture sector is the backbone of the economy and employs about 75% of the labour 
force, while mining sector continued to dominate the economic growth path and remained the 
major sector in terms of export earnings, acc ounting for approximately 90%. The high dependence 
on a single commodity for export earnings has placed Sierra Leone in a vulnerable position with 
regards to external imbalances. We therefore commend the Government 's efforts of pursuing 
export exports diversif ication strategy intended to modify the composi tion of their exports way 
from d iamond and which will untimely help Sierra Leone to hedge against adverse terms of trade 
shocks by stabilizing export revenues.  WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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  4.128.   On trade and investment, we commend the authorit ies on the reforms undertaken during 
the review period aimed at improving the business climate and attracting investment. These 
reforms and initiatives that are worth mentioning here include customs legislation enacted in 2010, 
the public procurement legis lation enacted in 2016 and the Automated System for Customs Data 
(ASYCUDA), zero -tolerance policy against corruption; adoption of new laws in the mining and 
minerals sector; and the simplification of business registration procedures.   
4.129.   Since the last trade  policy review, Sierra Leone has continued with the efforts to promote 
the market economy, to expand investment and trade, stimulate growth, and facilitate its 
integration into the  world economy.  Sierra Leone has been a member of WTO since 23 July 1995 
and has actively been involved in regular and special work of WTO since establishing a Mission to 
the WTO in 2005. Sierra Leone is also an active member of the ACP Group, the African Group and 
Least developed countries group. At the regional level, Sierra Leo ne is a member of the Economic 
Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the Community of Sahel -Saharan States (CEN -SAD) 
and the Mano River union. Sierra Leone also continues to benefit from preferences granted by the 
EU, United States and other many othe r developed countries, however we note with concern that 
an optimal level of trade has not been reached in thes e initiatives. In this regard, Sierra L eone 
should be assisted in building supply side capacity and compe titiveness in order to maximize  the 
benefits of i ts various trade arrangements.  
4.130.   On the implementation of WTO commitments, we noted that Sierra Leone continues to face 
difficulties in fulfilling its notification obligations. In this regard, we encourage Sierra Leone to take 
advantage of the WTO t echnical assistance support to help and facilitate the implementation of the 
WTO Agreements including the fulfilment of  its transparency obligations.  
4.131.   We also noted that Sierra Leone has not ratified the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, nor 
has it notified  its list of category A commitments. We therefore urge Sierra Leone to ratify the TFA 
and s ubmit its Category A measures. We have no thought that implementation of trade facilitation 
Agreement (TFA) will be enable the country to reduce trade cost, enhance predictability and 
certainty and untimely expand their participation in global trade.  
4.132.   On the bilateral front, trade between Kenya and Sierra Leone is based on the Most 
Favou red Nation principle and trade has seen a steady increase since last trade policy r eview. In 
2015, total trade between both countries was valued at US$1.6 million with Kenya exporting goods 
worth US$1.1 million to Sierra Leone. There is still a lot of scope to increase the volume of trade 
between the two countries.  
4.133.   In conclusion, my dele gation wish es to encourage Sierra Leone to continue its effort to 
improve domestic policies, institutions and business environment with an open trade and 
investment policy regime. We wish the delegation of Sierra Leon e a successful trade policy review.  
PAKISTAN  
4.134.   It is understandable that Sierra Leone is currently going through a vul nerable post -conflict 
and post -Ebola virus disease (EVD) phase. It 's no wonder that because of coping with this 
challenge, growth could not be sustained in the desired manner.  
4.135.   Pakistan appreciates the fact that since its last Trade Policy Review (TPR) in 2005, Sierra 
Leone has relentlessly pursued its reconstruction efforts. The business environment improved as a 
result of structural reforms and progress in governance and human de velopment. Sierra Leone has 
expanded its mining sector. As a result of its policies some recovery was seen in 2015, which 
should continue if diversification in the production base is sustained.  
4.136.   It is commendable that during the review period, Sierra Leone 's exports diversified away 
from diamonds, and also consist of iron -ore, rutile, bauxite, and agricultural products (cocoa and 
coffee).  
4.137.   Pakistan would encourage Sierra Leone to ratify the TFA. Especially since it has been 
taking the right steps, for examp le Sierra Leone has replaced its manual customs clearance system 
with the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA), leading to a substantial decline in 
average processing and clearance times.  WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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4.138.   Pakistan feels that even though there have been reforms in t he financial and telecom 
sector, but further improvements and liberalization in the services sector can add to the vibrancy 
of the economy.  
4.139.   Pakistan and Sierra Leone enjoy good bilateral relations, even though bilateral trade is not 
significant. Pakistan hopes that the economic relations between the two countries are enhanced in 
the coming years.  
4.140.   We would also like to acknowledge and place on record the positive efforts of the 
Ambassador of Sierra Leone to the WTO, Excellency Ms Yvette Stevens, who is a ve ry effective and 
a great voice for the rights of LDCs and  small economies in the WTO.  
CHAD  
4.141.   First of all, Chad associates itself with the statement made by Benin on behalf of the LDCs 
and by the Kingdom of Morocco on behalf of the African Group.  
4.142.   Chad highly  appreciates the WTO's commitment to supporting Sierra Leone's efforts and 
helping to promote its economy and trade with a view to sustainable development.  
4.143.   My delegation would like to thank and congratulate Ambassador Yvette Stevens for her 
crucial role in  consolidating the multilateral trading system.  
4.144.   We welcome the numerous initiatives launched by the Government to raise the Republic of 
Sierra Leone to emerging economy status, in particular the introduction of a policy of economic 
and trade reform and a d evelopment planning strategy.  
4.145.   My delegation also welcomes the considerable efforts made by Sierra Leone, notably in 
updating its WTO notifications, regularly updating its schedule of commitments, acceding to 
several regional and multilateral agreements, un dertaking ceiling bindings that are far from 
negligible, and adopting an anti corruption law. All of this contributes to strengthening the 
multilateral trading system.  
4.146.   It is worth noting that since the end of the conflict and the evident political instabil ity, the 
lack of infrastructure and poor access to financing, Sierra Leone has made an enormous effort to 
strengthen its legal and institutional framework for coherent and sound policy making and to 
promote export and market diversification, which has resu lted in substantial economic recovery.  
4.147.   Sierra Leone's enormous potential in terms of natural resources and its young population 
provide it with an extraordinary opportunity to attract and benefit from foreign direct investment.  
4.148.   My delegation encourages Sie rra Leone to pursue its efforts, and calls upon the community 
of technical and financial partners to support the country in implementing its economic and trade 
policies and promoting its sustainable development.  
REPUBLIC  OF GUINEA  
4.149.   The Republic of Guinea is  pleased to be participating once again, in this second trade policy 
review of Sierra Leone.  
4.150.   For the Guinean Government, this is a reflection of the commitment of the Sierra Leonean 
authorities to promoting an open and transparent multilateral trading syst em. 
4.151.   I would also like to congratulate Her Excellency Mrs Sabine Muller for her comprehensive 
portrayal of Sierra Leone's trade policy, and above all for the clarity and frankness of the report 
she has just presented us.  
4.152.   The Republic of Guinea has taken not e of the two reports prepared, respectively, by the 
WTO Secretariat and the Sierra Leonean Government.  WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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  4.153.   As you know, relations between Sierra Leone and Guinea go back a long way, 
strengthened from the start by close political ties and good neighbourliness.  
4.154.   Guinea and Sierra Leone share a common official border, but above all, there are many 
artificial boundaries where numerous Guinean and Sierra Leonean families live together in perfect 
harmony.  
4.155.   The sister Republics of Sierra Leone and Guinea are both member s of the Manu River 
Union and ECOWAS.  
4.156.   Within the Manu River Union and ECOWAS, Sierra Leone and the Republic of Guinea are 
seeking to strengthen and promote the maintenance of peace, security and stability in their 
respective countries and in the West Afric an subregion.  
4.157.   The Republic of Guinea is a privileged economic and trading partner of Sierra Leone. 
Thanks to the commitment of our two governments and the socio economic cooperation that has 
always existed between our peoples, trade carries on without any obstacles.  
4.158.   Since the end of the civil war, the Sierra Leonean Government has made an enormous 
effort to improve governance, to provide a healthier investment climate, and to modernize its 
trade policy.  
4.159.   By fulfilling its international commitments and engagi ng in international cooperation, Sierra 
Leone has been able to launch its Agenda for Prosperity, which aims to reduce poverty through 
reforms involving the reconstruction of its basic social and economic infrastructure.  
4.160.   But as shown in the two reports, Sie rra Leone's efforts to promote its socio economic 
development were undermined in 2014 by the Ebola virus epidemic.  
4.161.   Together with Guinea and Liberia, Sierra Leone bore the brunt of the Ebola virus epidemic. 
Quite apart from the human and health aspects of t he crisis, it also had considerable economic and 
social repercussions. However, Sierra Leone was declared by the WHO to be free of the Ebola 
epidemic on 17 March 2016.  
4.162.   As an LDC that has undergone several internal and external shocks, such as the civil war  
and the Ebola epidemic, we are convinced that Sierra Leone needs increased international 
cooperation and technical assistance in implementing its international commitments, notably 
within the WTO.  
4.163.   Sierra Leone has considerable agricultural potential, agri culture remaining the population's 
main source of livelihood. It accounts for 56% of GDP and two thirds of employment in the 
country. Agricultural production revolves around a few commodities: rice, cocoa and coffee. In 
spite of its significant fisheries r esources, the contribution of that sector is limited.  
4.164.   Sierra Leone's mobile telephony market is expanding rapidly. There is also considerable 
potential in the tourism sector and in mining; for example, the mining of diamonds, gold, bauxite 
and iron help to  sustain GDP growth.  
4.165.   Sierra Leone has made considerable efforts to meet its obligations with respect to 
transparency in mining, with the publication of its Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative 
(EITI) report.  
4.166.   For Sierra Leone to sustain its growth momentum, it needs increased international 
cooperation, with the WTO in particular, and we need to encourage that cooperation.  
4.167.   Finally, my delegation endorses the statements made by Benin on behalf of the LDCs and 
Morocco on behalf of the African Group.  
4.168.   Before concluding my statement, I would like to pay a warm tribute to Ambassador 
Stevens and her team for their vitality. Indeed, they have spared no effort to ensure Sierra 
Leone's prominence and visibility on the international scene in Geneva.  WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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LIBERIA  
4.169.   On behalf of the Liberian delegation, headed by its Head of Mission, Paul Wolokollie TATE, I 
would like to welcome the Sierra Leone 's Deputy Minister of Trade and delegation to Geneva for 
this all important Trade Policy Review (TRC) of your country.  
4.170.   Liberia wo uld like to express its sincere  gratitude to Sierra Leone for its impressive growth 
despite the numerous  challenges it has faced.  Liberia would also associate itself with the statement 
delivered by t he Ambassador of Morocco on behalf of the African Group a nd Benin 's Ambassador 
for the LDC group. The Liberian delegation would also like to take off its CAP to Ambassador 
Stevens of the Sierra Leone 's Mission, Geneva and her delegated staff for the tireless efforts to put 
that country among others.  
4.171.   To conclude,  let me thank the E xcellency of Namibia and other M embers for organizing the 
section as well as to wish Sierra Leone the best of success in i ts Trade Policy Review.  
MOZAMBIQUE  
4.172.   My delegation aligns itself with the statements presented by Morocco and Benin, on behalf 
of the Africa n and the LDC 's Groups.  
4.173.   We co mmend Sierra Leone 's Government  for the good macroeconomic performance, as 
well as for the significant gains that enabled stability and broad growt h in the economy of the 
country  since t he previous Trade Policy Review  in 2005.  
4.174.   Notwithstanding the Ebola pandemic disease , that severely  affected the c ountry in 2014 
and 2015, and the global iron slowdowns in prices, Sierra Leone stood firmly and  with the internal 
efforts, support from various donor agencies, o rganizations single countries and that from the 
African Development Bank, the country succeeded in stepping up progress as well as developing 
Small and Medium Enterprises Policy and Action Plan to support the establishment of a positive 
business environmen t, aiming to achieve growth and prosperity.  
4.175.   During the period under review, Sierra Leone developed and revised different policy  
instruments and, in 2016, the c ountry established a SME 's Agency and the Local Content Agency 
with a view to promoting the busin ess environment and to enforcing the loca l content policy 
respectively.  
4.176.   Despite the current economic trends, still as a result of the global economic and financial 
slowdown, we commend Sierra Leone for undertaking the already referred and other reforms,  
which results are encouraging.  
4.177.   We are aware of the various challenges facing Sierra Leone in many areas of concern to 
development, starting from human capacity, infrastructure, supply side, financial capacities 
including in the domain of agriculture, tourism , fisheries, oil and gas, energy infrastructure, 
transport and communications, and so forth, which tend to compromise the country 's development 
potential.  
4.178.   Through the trade policy review, that is an extremely important exercise,  Sierra Leone 
demonstrates the country 's commitment to maintaining itself as a strategic multilateral and 
bilateral p artner  by increasing transparency.  
4.179.   We are confident that the country will succeed in the implementation of reforms and 
national development policies, and we encourage  polices that foster the country 's involvement 
various initiatives and actions, that are able to actively contribute to the regional, multilateral 
including bilateral  and global trading system.  
4.180.   Meanwhile, further progress requires capacity building in dom ains concerned to trade, 
natural resources value addition and diversification of production and exports, and others. 
Therefore, Sierra Leone should be assisted, in view to maximising the existing comparative 
advantages in different areas .  WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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  4.181.   We call upon dev eloped countries and others in conditions to do so, to direct multiform 
technical assistance  and capacity building to this c ountry  to achieve progress .   WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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5  REPLIES BY THE REPRE SENTATIVE OF SIERRA LEONE  AND ADDITIONAL COMME NTS 
5.1.  Thank you Madam Chairperson . I also want to thank  the Member States. All of us will recall 
that in 2013, as a country and as a n ation, we had on e of the fastest growing economies  and by 
2014, we had been hit by two great shocks: the Ebola Virus Disease and the fall in the prices of 
iron ore. As a country and as a n ation, we had to sit down and see what we could do to meet those 
challenges  and we developed the post -Ebola Recovery Strategy. The Government was able to 
prioritize key sector s in order to move with the  speed to see how we coul d recover the economy . 
These sectors included  energy, trade, agriculture, and fisheries.  I am also pleased that in our last 
meeting  the Chairperson made mention of the 2005 TPR report and , that you as  Member State s 
were very much grateful that we are achieving structural reforms in terms of : zero tolerance in 
corruption; doing business (registering a business will take just one day and can be done online); 
revenue generation ( the tax generating institution of our country, the National Revenue Authority, 
has moved from a manual to an automated way of doing things - to the ASYCUDA ++). As I 
speak, we are trying to introduce the single window and see how we can move to ASYCUDA World.  
5.2.  However, the discussant also made mention and we also noted in our speech our concern 
that we should try to improve on export diversification and food security, packaging and value 
addition. Most importantly, she raised the question of what we , as a country , should do in terms of 
the importation of rice and we are also mindful that  we are spending about US$165 million 
annually on the importation of rice. In the 70s and 80s , we used to export rice to the wor ld, but 
after the civil war and  the recent shock in our economy, there was some imbalance.  
5.3.  However, under the recovery programme , one of our priority projects is to be able to feed 
ourselves. We have what we call institutional feeding and we, as a Ministry  (the Ministry of Sierra 
Leone), are trying to see how we can feed ourselves, the institutions like the police, the military 
and the correctional centres. We have been doing that, we start ed with 10% this year which we 
successfully delivered and supplied, and by December we will be moving to wards 30% or  40% of 
the quota. By next year , we will be trying to achieve between 50% and 10 0% in terms of 
supplying rice to the police, the military and the correctional centre s. So I also wanted to thank 
the discussant for that question. However, our able Ambassador will give the responses to the 
questions being raised by the Member States.  
H.E. MRS.  YVETTE  STEVENS  
5.4.  Thank you very much. I will not repeat the thank you that has been made by my Honourable 
Minister. I will go ahead with the questions for which we have provided responses. They have been 
grouped under the following headings: economic environment, trade and investment regime, trade 
policies and practices by measure, and sectoral policies.  
Economic environment  
5.5.  Under the economic environment, the question was asked about debt sustainability.  
5.6.  The Government will continue to conduct annual  debt sustai nability analysis to determine the 
Government 's ability to meet future debt service obligation without recourse to external 
imbalances. The Government will also continue to implement prudent borrowing practices by 
prioritizing grants and highly  concessional loans.  
5.7.  The Government will continue to borrow within the guided principle of debt sustainability. In 
that regard, the Government borrowing will be targeted towards the productive sectors of the 
economy.  WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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  Trade and investment regime  
5.8.  On trade  and investment regime, questions were asked about the timeline for the completion 
of the AGOA initiative. There was a question before that on the fast track commercial c ourt. 
Fast Track Commercial Court  
5.9.  Presently funding has b een secured for the upgrade o f fast track commercial court, c ourt 
automation, appointment of more j udges, review of the court processes and procedures. Trials can 
now last from filing to judgement a maximum of 44 days.  
5.10.   The court mostly uses Alternate Dispute Resolution to solve matter s. All matters go to ADR 
first and if it fails, it goes  to full trial.  
5.11.   The Fast Track Commercial C ourt is open to both foreign and local investors for all 
commercial -related matters.  
National Coordinating Committee on Trade (NCCT)  
5.12.   In relation with a questi on which was asked on the National Coordinating Committee on 
Trade , to enhance coordination and effective dialogue on trade issues, Sierra Leone has revived 
the National Coordinating Committee on Trade (NCCT), which was defunct since 2009, drawing 
from var ious stakeholders. ECOWAS has supported a capacity building training for NCCT members 
in May 2014.  
5.13.   Under the AGOA question, the AGOA utiliz ation plan will be completed by 31 May 2017.  
5.14.   A question was asked under the i nvestment regime  about  the impact of the  incentives that 
have been provided. Some of the impacts include removing the administrative barriers in the ease 
of doing business reforms so more businesses , as a result , have been registered and more foreign 
direct investments have been attracted. It no w takes 24 hours to register a business.  
5.15.   Sierra Leone has carried out a series of legislative reforms since the first Trade Policy 
Review to enhance a conducive business environment that will attract Foreign Direct Investment. 
These include: the Business R egistration Act, 2007, the Investment and Export Promotion Agency 
Act 2007, which established the Sierra Leone Investment and Export Promotion Agency (SLIEPA), 
and the Anti -Corruption Act, 2008 to fight graft. The Bankruptcy Act, 2009, was also passed. The  
Companies Act, 2009 and the companies (Amendment) 2014 Law provides, for the registration of 
companies. The Goods and Services Tax Act, 2009, also provides for the imposition of a broad 
based tax on the consumption of goods and services in Sierra Leone an d to provide for other 
related matters. Parliament also passed the Payment Systems Act, 2009. The Finance Act, 2010, 
that provides for the imposition and alteration of taxation for the year 2010 and the Debt 
Management Act, 2011 which provides for the mana gement of the public debt of Sierra Leone and 
the Finance Act, 2013, to provide the imposition and alteration of taxes in Sierra Leone was 
passed.  
5.16.   Sierra Leone also strengthened the legal, regulatory and institutional frameworks that 
underpin private -sector-led growth with the establishment of the fast -track commercial court, the 
Credit Reference Bureau, the Corporate Affairs Commission and the revised legislation of company 
activities. In addition, the financial sector was diversified and grown, bringing a ccess to finance. 
Thus Sierra Leone increased its "Doing Business " score markedly from 2005 -2016.  
5.17.   There was a question raised about the Produce Monitoring Board  of Sierra Leone . It is a 
regulatory institution whose main focus and consideration is the quali ty control function, involving 
assurance of produce standardization, export of high -quality produce and enforcement of 
regulations in the produce sector under the enabling Parliamentary Act of 2013.  
5.18.   The Petroleum Regulatory Agency was formed by an act of P arliament in 2014 to regulate, 
monitor and oversee Petroleum and Petroleum Products in the downstream industry in Sierra 
Leone, for growth, efficiency and stake holder satisfaction.  WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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5.19.   Local Content Policy was put together through a consultative process to in crease 
participation in the private sector and create employment. We are yet to realiz e the full benefits of 
this policy as its implementation is in the initial stage s. However, like any other policy, it could be 
subject to review in the near future.  
Trade  policies and practices by measures  
The Trade Facilitation Agreement  
5.20.   To assist Sierra Leone in determining the categories of the TFA, the World Bank Group, with 
representatives of the World Customs Organization, undertook the following activitie s: 
 assesse d Sierra Leone 's current alignment to the TFA 36 technical measures to identify any 
significant gaps (Gap Analysis);  
 identified the actions that the government and/or its border authorities should take to close 
those gaps, as well as the technical or othe r support that may be required to do so (Reform 
Action Plan); and  
 identify Sierra Leone stakeholder 's initial recommendations with respect to the measures 
that Sierra Leone may wish to notify under Categories A, B and C, respectively (Category 
Proposal)  
5.21.   This analysis was undertaken by means of an in -country review of border operations at the 
seaport in Freetown; individual interviews of key officials and stakeholders; a two -day validation 
workshop with public and private sector representatives; and desk res earch of the relevant laws 
and regulations of Sierra Leone, as well as a review of prior studies and reports.  
5.22.   Finally, a Cabinet Paper has been approved and the final document has been sent to 
Parliament for ratification.  We will be following up with Parli ament for this ratification and we hope 
that we will notify the Trade Facilitation Agreement in the near future.  
Common External Tariff (CET)  
5.23.   The ECOWAS CET d id not commence as scheduled on the 1st January 2017, due to delays in 
coming up with the final li st of products for the Import Adjustment Tax (IAT) and the 
Supplementary Protection Tax (SPT). The List of Products for the IAT is now ready and awaiting 
administrative and legal formalities at national level. Besides, the ECOWAS Commission would 
have to v alidate and approve this list of products before commencement. April 2017 is now being 
targeted as the commencement date.  
5.24.   Regarding impact assessment study, we used data from the Asycuda System at the 
Customs and Statistics Sierra Leone and did some analys is using a World Bank Model. But since 
the model is new to us and we were not quite sure of what we got, we contacted World Bank for 
assistance in that direction. They referred us to an expert based in the s ub-region and who has 
assisted Member S tates to c onduct such studies. So the impact a ssessment study is currently 
on-going. With the IAT products list now in place, we expect predictable and realistic outcomes at 
the end of the process. It is hoped that the study report will be ready in early March 2017.  
5.25.   For the IAT, a list of p roducts of 157 tariff lines has  been suggested for submission to the 
ECOWAS Commission for approval. The Ministries of Finance and Trade are currently reviewing the 
list before submission to ECOWAS in the next 3 days.  
5.26.   The list of products for the SPT has still not been put together. According to the provisions 
of ECOWAS Regulation for Supple mentary Protection Measures, a M ember State wishing to apply 
SPT is expected to have collected the necessary data, do the calculations and asse ss injury done or 
would be done to domestic industries. This has not been done, though products have  been 
identified for the study.  We are undertaking to do all this and have the commencement of the CET 
by April 2017.  WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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  Internal taxes and others charges  
GST ON IMPORTS  
5.27.   GST on imports is levied at a rate of 15% on goods specified in the First Schedule of the 
External Tariff of Sierra Leone and all taxable goods and services not listed in Schedule 2 of the 
GST Act 2009 as amended. The amount paid can , however , be deducted from GST on sales or 
services when claims are made to the Domestic Tax Department on tax returns.  
GST ON GOODS AND SERVICES  
5.28.   At the domestic level, GST is charged on all goods and services not listed in the Second 
Schedule of the GST Act 2009 as amended. GST paid on imports can be claimed as input tax. GST 
returns and payments should be submitted and paid on a monthly basis.  
5.29.   Contingency measures . We note that we have not notified WTO of the absence of 
anti-dumping legislation.  We intend to do s o together with our other outstanding notifications by 
the end of the year. I must add that this Trade Policy Review has actually made us aware of the 
number of notifications which we have not yet made and we promised that we would be looking at 
all these notifications and will coming back to the WTO with notifications in the not too distant 
future.  
5.30.   Technical regulation and standards . The TBT agreement will be implemented once the TFA 
agreement will be ratified by the P arliament. The measure (Enquiry Points ) has been listed under 
category C which requires technical assistance.  
5.31.   Sanitary and Phytosanitary measures . The d rafting of the phytosanitary and pest control 
bills is still in progress due to const raints in our drafting capacity  within t he country. In te rms of 
drafting legislation, we do have limited capacity and is another area where we might need 
technical assistance.  
5.32.   Export Taxes . Royalty is charged on the export volume of extractive commodities. The 
Finance Acts of 2013 and 2014 provide for the rate s of royalty that is charged. These royaltie s are 
paid as non -tax revenue. It is 3% for alluvial diamonds and  6.5% for industrial diamonds. The 
15% goods and services tax (GST), is applied across the board on taxable services.  
5.33.   Export prohibitions, restrictio ns and licensing . The purpose of the ban on raw logs was to 
add value, as well as, to discourage defo restation and illegal logging. In order to notify partners of 
the ban and of actions taken to combat illegal logging and related trade, a letter was sent f rom the 
Office of the Chief of Staff to all partners.  Press releases were also issued by the Ministry of Trade 
and Industry and the Ministr y of Agriculture and Forestry. Court action has been  taken against 
defaulters . 
5.34.   Special Economic Zones . The Government  of Sierra Leone intends to establish more SEZs at 
least one in each Region in the Western Area (Free town); Northern Region (Makeni); Southern 
Religion (Bo) and Eastern Region  (Kenema). The Government will provide more preferential policy 
measures in the n ew SEZs through the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) grant that will : 
 Review the 2012 SEZs policy to make it more private sector participatory and investor 
friendly . 
 Develop the SEZs legislation .  
 Develop the SEZs Authority .  
5.35.   Access conditions will be embedd ed in the reviewed SEZs policy. There will be flexibility for 
an inclusive participation – i.e. wholly foreign –owned, foreign joint stock, etc. in investments. It is 
yet too early in the process of the establishment of the SEZs to enable us to draw lessons . 
5.36.   Industries located outside the SEZ will be  put at a comparative disadvantage as: WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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 They would have more taxes to pay i.e. import and export taxes, etc.  
 Unreliable energy/ electricity supply and thus high production cost.  
Incentives  
5.37.   Investment incentives in Sierra Leone are provided for in various Finance Acts and compiled 
in a Tax Incentive Handbook, which is currently being reviewed by the Government of Sierra 
Leone, through the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development. Updated statistics on 
investment incentives will be provided in due course.  
5.38.   Tax incentive data are not disaggregated by recipient multilateral institutions or foreign 
investors. Investment incentives are categorized by the sector rather than by the nature or origin 
of the investment. Ther efore, it is compatible with the TRIMS (Trade -related investment 
measures).  
Government Procurement  
5.39.   A potential or actual bidder that claims to have suffered or that is likely to suffer, loss or 
injury due to a breach of a duty imposed on the procuring enti ty by the Act, the Regulations or the 
bidding document, may seek a review at any stage of the procurement proceedings.  
5.40.   Any application  for review submitted b y a bidder, in accordance with S ection 63 of the Act, 
shall contain:  
 Details of the procurement pro ceedings to which the application relates, including t he 
procurement reference number;  
 Details of the provision of the Act, Regulations or other instrument which has been 
breached ; 
 An explanations of how the provision has been breached, including, where kn own, the date 
and the names of responsible officers; and  
 Any available documentary or other evidence supporting the application.  
 The application for review shall be submitted in writing to the head of the procuring entity, 
unless a contract has already bee n awarded.  
5.41.   Sierra Leone has a well -defined procurement regime and now we are considering  an 
observer status at the GPA.  
Competition policy and price controls  
5.42.   The Draft Competition Bill is being reviewed by the Law Officers ' Department  and sanctions 
in the case of abuse of dominant position are stipulated  in the provisions of the Bill.  
5.43.   The competition policy already approved by the Parliament deals with:  
 Monopoly  
 Anti-competitive practices  of businesses  
 Collision  
 Mergers and Acquisition  WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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  Intellectual Propert y Rights  
5.44.   The protocol amending the TRIPS Agreement has been actually  signed and will be deposited 
as soon as we have the original documents which are required by the WTO.  
5.45.   The Ministry of Trade and Industry is in the process of setting -up the Sierra Leone 
Intellectual Property Agency. This Agency will spearhead all activities relating to intellectual 
property rights.  
5.46.   A hard copy of the Trademark legislation will be submitted in the coming weeks.  
5.47.   Regarding the situations that are treated as "Urgent Matter s", the aggrieved person has to:  
 provide detailed information regarding shipm ent (ie. Mode of transportation/ exportation, 
packaging etc.) of the pirated copy right goods well in advance before goods are introduced 
into the country . 
 submit an application regar ding a copyright infringement to the Commissioner General 
before the pirated copy right goods are introduced into the customs territory of Sierra 
Leone . 
5.48.   No pirated copyright goods have been detained and destroyed by Customs. However, in 
2014 a local busine ssman filed a complaint with the Customs Department, National Revenue 
Authority (NRA) but failed to submit the copyright registration certificate that would warrant any 
further investigation and subsequent seizure and detention.  
5.49.   No customs officer has ex o fficio author ity to initiate any challenges.  
SECTORAL POLICIES  
Agriculture  
5.50.   Function of Sierra Leone Produce Marketing Company:  
 To link smallholder farmers to market . 
 To carry out business as the primary exporter of quality agriculture produce . 
 To ensure go od quality exports from Sierra Leone . 
 To pay fair and reasonable prices to farmers and offer produce at attractive prices in  the 
export market.  
Governance  
5.51.   The Company is a Public Limited Company and registered in accordance with the laws of 
Sierra Leone.  
5.52.   The Company is governed by the following:  
 Ministry of Trade and Industry – Supervisory Ministry . 
 Board of Directors – Seven members drawn from Local Communities, private sector and 
Government Ministries.  
 Management . WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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Ownership  
5.53.   At the moment, the ownership st ructure of the company is 51% Government and 49% 
public. This structure reflects the various interests along the value chain. Subscribers to the 
company will be drawn from existing exporters, private sectors, farmers , other private 
stakeholders and the Gov ernment. This is to give company a broader representation and 
ownership, and to reflect the Government 's Public Private Partnership initiative.  
Election of Board Members  
5.54.   The current Board is appointed by the Office of the President through recommendation f rom 
the Ministry of Trade and Industry. However, as soon as the company is fully capitalized, 
representation to the Board will be determined by th e respective s hareholders.  
Board Composition  
 Paramount Chiefs from main produce producing chiefdoms . 
 Private S ector/ Farmers . 
 Related Line Ministry with approval from State House . 
How does "Guaranteeing prices " function in practice?  
5.55.   SLPMC guarantee fair price to farmers for all Agricultural Pr oduce handled by the company: 
coca, coffee, palm oil, cashews, and s orghu m. 
 Pay to farmers above 60% FOB . 
 Issuing of receipts to farmers . 
 Displaying of prices at the Buying Centers . 
 Sensitizing of Farmers and Agents through pr oduce monitors  and media announcement.  
Does SLPMC Buys Products from Farmers?  
 From Farmers and Buying A gents.  
Which body is fixing the guaranteed prices?  
 Produce Monitoring Board (PMB)  
Which Criteria are used in fixing prices?  
 The quality and quantity . 
 International Marketing Price . 
 Exchange Rate . 
 Prevailing prices in the neighboring countries . 
Who Finance the cost?  
 The Government of Sierra Leone . 
 Proceeds from the SLPMC Trading Activities.  WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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  5.56.   The process of ratification of the International Cocoa agreement with the treaty office in 
New York is ongoing. The Ministry of Foreign Affair has been officially informe d to facilitate the 
process . 
5.57.   The Produce Monitoring Board is assigned with the responsibility to coordinate the process 
of signing of the International Cocoa Agreement which came into existence in November 2014, and 
subsequent to its becoming operational i n January 2014.  
5.58.   Nevertheless, the Acting Executive Secretary has taken responsibility in facilitating the 
process with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and we are assured t hat the agreement will be ratified  
in the next few months.  
Fisheries  
5.59.   With support fr om our development partners such as the World Bank we have increased 
monitoring and surveillance of our Ex clusive Economic Zone to stall i llegal, unreported and 
unregulated fishing. The Isle of Man is also supporting the Government in this effort.  
Services  (general)  
5.60.   There is no plan to liberaliz e the services market at the mo ment. Nevertheless, within the 
ECOWAS, trade in services has been facilitated for citizens of the sub -region.  
Financial services  
5.61.   Banks are required to maintain a minimum capital adequac y ratio of at least 15% of their 
risk-weighted assets, and a cash ratio equivalent to at least 12% of their total deposits.  
Telecommunication s 
5.62.   We will revert in relation to the questions on telecommunications, as we are still awaiting 
the responses from th e concerned  authorities.  
Postal services  
5.63.   We will revert in relation to the questions on postal services, as we are still awaiting the 
responses from the concerned authorities.  
Transport  
5.64.   The WTO GATS provides that any M ember country may modify or withdraw a t any time from 
any commitment it has made. It should also be noted tha t many EU member S tates (including UK) 
and many leading developed or developing countries like the United States, Japan, India, Brazil, 
Canada and South Africa, have not and undertaken any specific commitment on cross border 
shipping activities and are therefore free according to the WTO GATS to maintain or introduce 
cargo reservation policies such as the SLNC Act of 2012 amended in 2014.  
5.65.   The Cotonou Agreement does not affect the right o f Sierra Leone to set its political choices 
and development priorities (article 34(1)). In addition it should be noted that its ultimate objective 
is to enable the ACP states to play a full part in international trade (article 34(2)). Finally the 
Cotonou A greement maintains special treatment for the ACP Least Developed Countries (LDC), 
such as Sierra Leone (Article 35(3)).  
5.66.   The SLNC Act 2012/2014 was passed and the SLNC was established to enable a local 
company to successfully participate in the internationa l shipping market which is the ultimate 
objective of the Cotonou Agreement. Sierra Leone is a LDC with very little experience and 
know -how in the international shipping market. Without a cargo reservation policy such as the 
SLNC Act 2012/2014, no local com pany would have been able to develop into a successful 
international shipping company.  WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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5.67.   The undertaking of the ACP states in the Cotonou Agreement to promote liberalization of 
maritime transport to this end apply effectively to the principle of unrestricted  access to the 
international maritime transport market on a nondiscriminatory and commercial basis, is 
conditional on the EU supporting through national and regional development strategies , the efforts 
of the ACP states to develop and promote cost effecti ve and efficient maritime transport service 
with a view to increasing participation of ACP operators in international shipping services. We are 
not aware of any such supports received by Sierra Leone from the EU until today.  
5.68.   Provisions of the FPSO and FSO are not part of the international maritime transport market 
being, shipping service, not dealing or not only dealing with transport, rendered to oil and gas 
industry within the territorial water, the exclusive economic zone , or the continental shelf of 
Sierra Leone.  
5.69.   Therefore, neither the WTO GATS nor the Cotonou Agreement apply to such reservation as 
provided for in the SLNC ACT of 2012/2014.  
Tourism  
5.70.   The Government is promoting the development, protection and preservation of our cultural 
assets, and eco -tourism potential under its economic diversification strategy.   
Professional services  
5.71.   The market for auditing services in the country is dominated by the large international 
accounting firms. Most financial sector companies, as well as large corporations, a re audited by 
audit firms affiliat ed with international networks.  The Bank of Sierra Leone is empowered to 
regulate financial reporting by non -bank financial institutions under the Other Financial Services 
Act of 2001 and regulates banks under the Banking Act of 2000.  
5.72.   With this I will end my presentation of the summary of responses. I am conscious that we 
may not have answered all the questions and we will be prepared to take additional questions and 
if we cannot answer them we will get back to you within t he month.  
DISCUSSANT  
5.73.   It was indeed an honour for me to participate in Sierra Leone 's second Trade Policy Review 
as a discussant. I wish to thank all delegations for their comprehensive and constructive dialogue, 
stimulated by open discussion s at high level . 
5.74.   This Trade Policy Review has allowed all of us to have a better understanding and full 
appreciation of Sierra Leone 's trade policies. It provided information about progress made in 
recent years and aspirations for the future.  
5.75.   Many delegations expressed a nd I wish to underline this, their admiration for Ambassador 
Stevens, who with her extraordinary experience and knowledge is Geneva 's uncontested doyenne. 
Many delegations conveyed their respect  to the Government and people of Sierra Leone who have 
faced m any challenges but have always bounced back, and have demonstrated the resilience and 
strength to exert control over several different kinds of hardship.  
5.76.   With these few words, I wish Honourable Mr. Mansaray and his delega tion, a safe journey 
back home. I thank you.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
5.77.   On behalf of the EU, l et me first express our appreciation to Sierra Leone for the replies they 
have provided so far and for the exhaustive presentation given on Tuesday  and today . 
5.78.   While we don 't have any follow up questions, we would like to highlight that we have not yet 
received replies to the EU questions number 2, 3 and 4  as well as r eplies to EU questions 8 and 9 . 
These questions cover the issues of commercial court to fast track commercial disputes, the 
National Coordinating Committee on Trade (NCCT), the Independent Procurement Review Panel WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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  (IPRP) and Intellectual Property Rights.  We have taken good note of the Ambassador statement 
this morning that address some of those issues. However, we would very much appreciate 
receivin g them in writing.  
5.79.   In conclusion, t he EU is pleased to note that this review has been very useful for better 
understanding the trade policy of Sierra Leone and we hope  that Sierra Leone will duly take into 
account some of the concerns highlighted by Member s. 
5.80.   We would like to thank Sierra Leone for a constructive participation in this exe rcise.  
UNITED  STATES  
5.81.   On behalf of the U.S. delegation, I would like to thank Deputy Minister Mansaray, 
Ambassador Stevens, and the entire delegation of Sierra Leone.  We know  how much work goes 
into these trade policy reviews, and we very much apprec iate the constructive efforts.  We also 
greatly value Ambassador Moller 's insights and perspectives as d iscussant - and, as always, the 
expert assistance from the Secretariat.  
5.82.   We ap preciate the summary of Day 1 's discussion s and t he responses provided by 
Sierra  Leone to the questions that we and other Members posed. We submitted a few follow -up 
questions  this morning  and we look forward to Sierra Leone 's response s to those queries.  
5.83.   The United States notes  the issues of importance that were raised during this TPR, in 
particular the continued efforts toward rebounding from the Ebola crisis through increased 
economic growth, regional integration, market -opening trade and investment refor ms, export 
diversification, strengthening of the legal framework and enforcement of intellectual pro perty, and 
trade facilitation. And we look forward to Sierra Leone 's ratification of the TFA and hope that the 
parliamentary process moves quickly.  
5.84.   Finally,  congratulations to you and your  team on a suc cessful TPR.  We look forward to 
continued cooperation with our valued partner and Sierra Leone 's continued active engagement in 
the work of the WTO, and  we wish safe travels to those returning to capital . 
MR IBRAHIM  MANSARAY  (HEAD  OF DELEGATION)  
5.85.   On Tuesday 14 February 2017, we officially began our country 's second Trade Policy Review 
in this very building of the World Trade Organization.  
5.86.   On this occasion, I would like to reiterate my country 's commitment in a fa ir and 
transparent multilateral trading system.  
5.87.   I would like to thank, through the WTO Secretariat, the Trade Policy Review Body for its 
dynamic and constructive spirit during the preparation and presentation of the Government and 
the Secretariat reports.  
5.88.   I would also like to express my profound gratitude to other WTO Members for their interest 
shown in my country 's trade policy review. This was reflected in the number and quality of the 
questions and issues raised.  
5.89.   The Trade Policy Review Mechanism, establ ished by the WTO, is undoubtedly a tool that can 
help understand the trade policies of Member States.  
5.90.   For Sierra Leone, the essence and purpose of this mechanism should ena ble us to fulfil our 
commitment  as a full Member of the WTO, but also and above all,  to contribute to the emergence 
of a trading system that is fair to every Member States . 
5.91.   Therefore, the involvement and participation of all Member States during this exercise, 
significantly  demonstrates your interest in the people and the Government of Si erra Leone.  WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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5.92.   My delegation has done its best to provide answers to these questions. I humbly inform 
those Members who have not found answers to their questions or are not satisfied with our 
responses  that written replies will be sent back once we have conta cted the relevant stakeholders.  
5.93.   We believe that this review has been able to make a complete assessment of the Sierra 
Leone 's trade regimes and my Government will spare no effort to fully comply with WTO rules and 
also hono ur its multilateral commitments.  
5.94.   This will increase the transparency and predictability of the trade regime and help attract 
foreign investment in my country, which is recovering from the Ebola Virus Outbreak that led our 
economy into recession.  
5.95.   I wish that Members will support Sierra Leo ne in pursuing its efforts by improving market 
access for its goods and services and by paying special attention to the requests formulated here 
for technical assistance.  
5.96.   I cannot conclude my remarks without reiterating my deep gratitude to Madam Chair, wh ose 
commitment and personal involvement have made it possible to successfully hold this trade policy 
review.  
5.97.   I would also like to express again my sincere appreciation and gratitude for all your valuable 
contribution and comments during this exercise on my  country second trade policy review.  
5.98.   Finally, I would like to pay tribute to all Members of the WTO, the Director General, the 
Secretariat, the WTO staff especially the Trade Policy Review Body. And personally, on behalf of 
myself and my team, I would like  to thank Honourable Ambassador, Madam Yvette Stevens, who 
has been representing our country here and we are so proud of her. Thank you.  WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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  6  CONCLUDING REMARKS B Y THE CHAIRPERSON  
6.1.  This second Trade Policy Review of Sierra Leone has provided us with a good oppo rtunity to 
better understand the country 's current trade and investment policies, as well as the challenges it 
faces. I would like to thank Deputy Minister Mansaray and the res t of the delegation from 
Sierra  Leone, including Ambassador Yvette Stevens, for their constructive engagement throughout 
this exercise. I would also like to thank our discussant, Ambassador Sabine Böhlke -Möller from 
Namibia , for her insightful remarks, and all those Members who had participated in this review.  
6.2.  At this TPR meeting, Mem bers commended Sierra Leone on the resilience of its economy and 
its people. They were pleased to note that the country was back on the recovery path after the 
outbreak of the Ebola Virus Disease, and despite the numerous constraints it continued to face. 
They commended Sierra Leone for the reforms that had helped it improve its business 
environment, in particular its efforts in fighting against corruption, establishing a one -stop shop for 
business registration, and participating in the Extractive Industrie s Transparency Initiative. They 
saw a need for Sierra Leone to tackle supply -side constraints, so that these achievements would 
not be undermined. The delegation of Sierra Leone informed Members that the country had 
re-embarked on some major reforms, inclu ding a comprehensive review of the tax system and the 
implementation of the ECOWAS common external tariff, which were expected to foster the 
economic and social development of the country, and support its integration into the regional and 
world markets.  
6.3.  Members acknowledged Sierra Leone 's commitment to the multilateral trading system and its 
active participation in the WTO.  They encouraged Sierra Leone to ratify the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement and notify its Category A commitments as soon as possible. At t he same time, 
Members noted Sierra Leone 's need for additional capacity building assistance, and the role the 
WTO could play in this regard. Taking the opportunity of this TPR, the Sierra Leone delegation 
expressed gratitude for the technical assistance re ceived, including projects under the Enhanced 
Integrated Framework which had , inter alia , helped develop value chains for the country 's 
agricultural products. The delegation hoped that negotiations within the WTO would address 
development issues, with a vi ew to furthering the integration of LDCs into the multilateral trading 
system.  
6.4.  Commenting on Sierra Leone 's trade policy, Members welcomed its plans to develop an 
intellectual property (IP) strategy, and urged the country to accept the TRIPS Agreement 
amen dments and ratify some IP treaties such as the Berne Convention, the Copyright Treaty, and 
the WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty. We were glad to hear from Ambassador Stevens 
that the TRIPS Agreement had actually been signed already and was on the wa y to be deposited. 
The Sierra Leone delegation also informed Members that the country was in the process of setting 
up an agency that would spearhead all IP -related activities.  
6.5.  Members appreciated that Sierra Leone had taken further measures to enhance the  
transparency and effectiveness of its customs system, such as automation of procedures and the 
adoption of new legislation that updated provisions on customs valuation. However, some 
Members pointed out that, despite the binding of all its tariff lines, f requent revisions and the large 
gap between bound and applied rates had undermined the predictability of the country 's tariff 
regime and created uncertainty for businesses. Members noted that Sierra Leone would implement 
the ECOWAS common external tariff a s from April 2017, and hoped it would be done in a 
WTO-consistent manner.  
6.6.  Regarding government procurement, Members congratulated Sierra Leone on the reform that 
had enhanced transparency and openness to international competition. Nonetheless, concerns 
were expressed about Sierra Leone 's local content policy, which emphasized the use of locally 
available goods and services, and national preferences in publ ic procurements and contracts. 
Some Members encouraged Sierra Leone to consider becoming an observer to  the WTO 
Government Procurement Agreeme nt, and were informed that the G overnment was indeed giving 
this due consideration. Members  also urged Sierra Leone to fully comply with its WTO obligations, 
in particular the notification requirements and implementat ion of the TBT Agreement. In response, 
the Sierra Leone delegation confirmed that the country was working to  comply with all its 
notification obligations in the near future . WT/TPR/M/303 • Sierra Leone  
 
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6.7.  By now, Sierra Leone has provided answers to most advance written questions raised  by 
Members. This morning, the delegation also gave us a comprehensive and detailed response to the 
key issues, including some very important and encouraging updates on the latest developments. 
This TPR will be successfully concluded in a month 's time, onc e we have received all the replies to 
all outstanding questions.   
6.8.  I hope this TPR will encourage Sierra Leone to carry out further reforms which can accelerate 
its economic recovery and alleviate poverty. Within the WTO framework, in particular through Aid  
for Trade, Members can also help Sierra Leone overcome its development challenges, so that at 
the next review of its trade policies, we can see the country moving from strength to strength, 
benefiting fully from its WTO membership.  
__________