1. Trade
Mandate
The core business of the Department of Trade is to develop, implement and monitor international trade and trade-related policies; negotiate and monitor the implementation of trade agreements and arrangements; and facilitate penetration of Lesotho’s products and services into regional and global markets. As a focal point for trade-related issues, the department coordinates and facilitates provision of trade related technical assistance and capacity building.
The Department also protects consumers’ rights and promotes their responsibilities. It further pursues a comprehensive local business agenda that engages all sectors of commercial activities, with particular emphasis on facilitating formulation of Laws and Regulations that empower the private sector to operate competently and profitably to make a significant contribution to the economy.
Objectives
- To enhance Market Access for Lesotho’s products
- To promote products manufactured in Lesotho in national, regional and international markets
- To Protect consumer’s rights and promote ethical trading
Functions of the Department of Trade
- Trade Promotion
- Identification of products with export potential
- Identification of innovative skills for trade development
- Dissemination of Trade and trade related information
- Product and market development
Enhance Market Access
- Negotiate enhanced market access for Lesotho’s goods and services
- Establish trade mainstreaming networks with line Ministries
- Trade policy analysis
- Trade capacity building
Consumer Protection and Dispute Resolution
- Intervene on Disputes relating to consumer complaints
- Educate consumers about their rights and responsibilities
- Monitor compliance through inspections
- Promotion of ethical trading
