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(HERALD) SA minister hails Zim trade policies

SA minister hails Zim trade policies
Wednesday, 25 April 2012 00:00
From Prosper Ndlovu in Bulawayo

INTERNATIONAL exhibitors at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair which opened in Bulawayo yesterday should take advantage of the investment opportunities in Zimbabwe to expand their business partnerships with local companies. South

African Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry Ms Elizabeth Thabethe said this yesterday when she officially opened the South African exhibition stands in Hall Four at the ZITF.

Ms Thabethe said Zimbabwe had a huge potential to achieve significant economic growth and urged local companies to network with their regional and international counterparts to boost their businesses.

She said the acclaimed international trade showcase was an embodiment of the good external relations Zimbabwe had with its neighbours and partners across the globe.

“We take note of the investment opportunities that are in Zimbabwe in various economic sectors, such as mining and tourism,” she said. “This shows that we have the potential to expand regional business and trade. There is a need to increase regional integration and creation of synergies that will see us achieve meaningful socio-economic development.”

Ms Thabethe applauded the recently launched Zimbabwe industrial and trade policies, saying the documents were a sign that the country was gearing itself for improved economic performance in the Sadc region and beyond.

“This calls for concerted African regional integration and value addition to our businesses. As South Africa, we will complement Zimbabwe and play our role in improving business growth.

“We have signed a lot of deals with Zimbabwe and we are elated to take part in this trade showcase. We will bring even more exhibitors in the coming trade fair.”

She paid tribute to Zimbabweans for celebrating 32 years of Independence and said the ZITF was a crowning moment of the gains of the liberation struggle.

South African Ambassador to Zimbabwe Professor Vusi Mavimbela, who also spoke at the opening ceremony, said the presence of regional and international exhibitors was an indicator that Zimbabwe was a good investment destination.

He said this year’s theme, “Investing Locally, Reaping Globally”, was befitting as it underscored the need for integrated business approaches and partnerships with players in the region and beyond.

Ambassador Mavimbela said Zimbabwe was renowned for its skilled labour, which the country should take advantage of to boost its economy.

“Zimbabwe is so advanced in terms of education, if not the leader. There is a need to integrate these skills towards economic growth of the country and the region,” he said. ZITF general manager Mr Daniel Chigaru paid tribute to the South African government and its companies for being consistent in participating at the ZITF.

“We are very grateful for the efforts to improve cordial relations between the two countries. We have received a lot of support from South African companies, even in terms of material support.”

Labels: ZIMBABWE INTERNATIONAL TRADE FAIR

posted by MrK @ 2:21 PM