Formal and informal cross- border trade in West Africa has increased since the 1990s as a result of economic liberalization policies, population growth and urbanization.
Men and women alike are involved in cross- border trade as producers, traders and consumers. However, because of the critical differences in their positions in the economies and societies of West Africa, and in trade in particular, the benefits they derive and the challenges they face are based on gender (GENTA, 2001).
The objective of this policy brief is to provide the basis for policies and measures to strengthen women’s contributions to trade and reduce the gender inequalities in the benefits derived from such trade. The assessment will focus on economic policy, contextual factors, and institutional and regulatory issues and constraints.