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Article . 2009
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
ZENODO
Article . 2009
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
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Informal Cross-Border Trade and Regional Integration in ECOWAS: A Qualitative Study in Ghana 2009

Authors: Osei, Banda; Gyamfi, Kwei; Amoako, Dzodzi; Fosu, Achimota;

Informal Cross-Border Trade and Regional Integration in ECOWAS: A Qualitative Study in Ghana 2009

Abstract

Informal cross-border trade plays a significant role in regional integration within ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States). In Ghana, this phenomenon is particularly pronounced as it serves as a bridge between formal and informal economic activities. Qualitative research methods were employed, including semi-structured interviews and participant observation, conducted among traders, government officials, and community leaders in selected regions of Ghana. The findings indicate that informal cross-border trade constitutes approximately 25% of total intra-regional commerce in Ghana. Key themes include the reliance on traditional networks for market access, challenges related to border controls, and the emergence of new regional trading hubs. This study highlights the importance of integrating informal cross-border traders into formal regional integration processes, suggesting that targeted policies could enhance economic resilience and inclusivity within ECOWAS. Policy recommendations include strengthening border management systems to reduce trade barriers, promoting education for informal traders on legal business practices, and fostering community-led initiatives to support sustainable development across borders. ECOWAS, Ghana, Regional Integration, Informal Trade, Cross-Border Commerce

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Keywords

Sub-Saharan, Anthropology, Mercantile, Ethnography, Geopolitical, Postcolonial, Political Economy, FOS: Sociology

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selected citations
These citations are derived from selected sources.
This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Citations provided by BIP!
popularity
This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Popularity provided by BIP!
influence
This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Influence provided by BIP!
impulse
This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Impulse provided by BIP!
0
Average
Average
Average
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