Impact of Non-Tariff Barriers on Maize Trade Volume at the Manyovu Border: Evidence from Tanzania-Burundi Cross-Border Traders Using Regression Analysis

The recent studies on the maize export through the Tanzania-Burundi border reveals a significant 50% decline in trade volume in 2023. This study analyzed the Impact of Non-Tariff Barriers on maize trade volume at the Manyovu Border focusing from Tanzania-Burundi Cross-Border Trade. Using a cross-sectional design with data from 150 respondents and multiple regression analysis, the study analysed the impact of various NTBs on maize trade. The key findings indicated that costs for soliciting export permits reduced volume of maize trade by 23% and business license costs to a 17% decline in trade. Similarly, road blocks and weighing bridge reduced the maize trade volume by 15% and 19% respectively. These results highlight how NTBs increases transaction cost, hindering efficient of cross-border maize trade.  The study recommends, Ministry of Agriculture and Ministry Industry and Trade prioritize initiatives to reduce NTBs, such as digitalization of customs procedures, fully implementing the One-Stop Center and enforcing the East African Community's Elimination of Non-Tariff Barriers Act. Such initiatives are critical in lowering business transaction costs for traders and transporters, thus facilitating smoother and more efficient trade between the two countries. This study contributes to the growing body of evidence on NTBs effect in less developed countries.