DIFFICULTES ET PERSPECTIVESDES ECHANGES TRANSFRONTALIERS AU NORD-OUEST DE L ATACORA AU BENIN

The reasons are put forward by economic operators to justify the weaknesses of trade in the border communities of the northwest of Atacora. The aim is to analyze the difficulties linked to cross-border trade in order to propose actions for effective development. The methodology consisted of collecting data and information through documentary research and direct observations in the field. A total of 29 focus groups were carried out. The results showed that the study communes are well served by a significant network of rural access roads which play an important role in the transport of agricultural products. But around 20% of these tracks have a real route and on which around 75% of engineering works are built. Consequently, those involved in cross-border trade are faced with the problems of the poor condition of rural roads and roads, and insecurity which does not facilitate their access to different markets. It is therefore desirable that suitable solutions be found.