Introduction
The ECOWAS Trade Information System (ECOTIS) and its related portals are essential tools for importers, exporters, freight forwarders, and customs agents across West Africa. These systems support trade transparency, data access, and integration with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). In this article, we’ll walk you through how to log in to the various ECOWAS trade platforms relevant to businesses operating in Nigeria.
1. What Is ECOTIS?
The ECOTIS portal (https://ecotis.ecowas.int) is a centralized platform providing:
- Trade and customs data
- Tariff schedules
- Product rules of origin
- Regional trade agreements (e.g., ETLS and AfCFTA)
- Export/import procedures by country
It serves as the primary gateway for accessing regional trade information across the 15 ECOWAS member states.
2. Key ECOWAS Trade Portals & Login Instructions
🔗 A. ECOTIS Portal
- Website: https://ecotis.ecowas.int
- Access Type: Most content is public; some features require login.
- Login Steps:
- Visit the homepage
- Click “Login” or “Sign in” (if applicable)
- Use ECOWAS-issued credentials if prompted
🔗 B. ECOWAS Trade Procedures Portal
- Website: https://ecowas.tradeportal.org
- Purpose: Displays step-by-step import/export processes for ECOWAS countries, including Nigeria.
- Login Steps:
- Choose your country on the homepage
- Click “Login” to access full procedural guides
- You will be redirected to the ECOWAS Central Authentication System (CAS)
- Enter your ECOWAS username and password
🔗 C. ECOWAS ETLS Dashboard
- Website: https://etls.ecowas.int/etls/
- Use: For companies and agencies registered under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS)
- Login: Requires an official NACS-issued username and password
🔗 D. Trade Facilitation West Africa (TFWA) Portal
- Website: https://tfwabeta.ecowas.int/auth/sign-in
- Features: Includes trade policy dashboards, border performance analytics, and transit monitoring
- Login: Limited to authorized stakeholders; use ECOWAS SSO credentials
3. Who Needs to Log In?
Login access is typically required for:
- Customs officials
- Approved exporters/importers
- Freight forwarders
- Licensed trade professionals under ETLS or AfCFTA
- Government or donor agency users
If you’re a Nigerian trader participating in cross-border or regional trade, these portals provide verified tools to manage documentation, customs clearance, and compliance.
4. Troubleshooting & Support
| Issue | Action |
|---|---|
| Forgot Password | Use the “Forgot Password” option or contact ECOWAS tech support |
| No Login Credentials | Reach out to your national ETLS or trade agency (e.g., NEPC Nigeria) |
| Technical Errors | Email support at info-ecotis@ecowas.int or check portal contact info |
Conclusion
Gaining access to ECOWAS’s trade platforms—like ECOTIS and the ETLS Dashboard—is crucial for businesses operating in Nigeria and across West Africa. These systems offer essential insights and procedural tools that enable efficient, compliant, and profitable trade. Whether you’re moving goods within ECOWAS or preparing to leverage AfCFTA, staying connected through these portals positions your business for success in the regional market.
