Formalising informal trade in North Africa

What interventions to facilitate the transition of trade from the informal to the formal sector have worked in North Africa?

Abstract

This review summarises the state of the evidence on Informal cross-border trade (ICBT) in North Africa, including its magnitude/ characteristics, determinants and implications (Section 2). Based on this evidence, it identifies a number of interventions that could facilitate the formalisation of this trade and discusses the extent to which they are already being implemented in the region (Section 3). Evidence on which of these interventions have worked best to curb ICBT in North Africa or elsewhere is recommended as an area for future research

K4D helpdesk reports provide summaries of current research, evidence and lessons learned. This report was commissioned by the UK Department for International Development.

Citation

Timmis, H. (2017) Formalising informal trade in North Africa. K4D Helpdesk Report. Brighton, UK: Institute of Development Studies.

Formalising informal trade in North Africa

Published 21 December 2017