Business must capitalise on Zim, Mozambique deepening ties

BUSINESSES in Zimbabwe and Mozambique must take full advantage of the two countries’ deepening bilateral ties, with cooperation between Harare and Maputo now shifting from transactional trade to integrated, value-added supply chains that drive investment, employment and shared economic prosperity, President Mnangagwa has said. “I, therefore, urge the private sector of our two countries to leverage our strengthened relations to drive greater synergies and win-win cooperation,” said President Mnangagwa. “Through ZimTrade and APIEX of Mozambique, both countries must now shift from transactional trade towards predictable value-added supply chains.

“It is critically important that our collective efforts unlock higher value for our primary products while also generating sustainable employment, empowerment and wealth creation.” President Mnangagwa said regional integration remains central to Zimbabwe’s economic strategy, highlighting ongoing reforms aimed at lowering production and trade costs, enhancing competitiveness and aligning with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). To maximise AfCFTA opportunities, he said Zimbabwe was moving swiftly to harmonise customs systems, eliminate non-tariff barriers and improve logistics along key trade routes. “We also recognise that the efficient movement of goods from production centres to ports and finally to the markets is essential for expanding regional trade,” he said.

“As such, we stand ready to transform Forbes-Machipanda into a seamless crossing point that facilitates faster, more predictable and efficient trade. Beira and Maputo corridors remain a strategic priority. Progress has been made to increase freight capacity along that route, including through the rehabilitation of the Machipanda railway.” Coordinated border management and efficient trade facilitation, he said, would reduce transit costs and open new opportunities for agricultural, mineral, energy and manufactured exports from both countries.

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The President stressed that private sector participation is essential for the success of the BNC, encouraging joint ventures in agro-processing, logistics, renewable energy, mining services, tourism and manufacturing. He also called on financial institutions to expand cross-border financing and business associations to strengthen support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

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