Matibini calls for intra-Africa trade
By Masuzyo Chakwe
Sat 17 Aug. 2013, 14:01 CAT
Africa needs to eliminate the unfortunate legacy of conducting more trade with other continents when there is very little intra-Africa trade.
And Speaker Matibini says Africa's present state is due to colonialism.
Speaker Matibini, who is currently attending a conference at the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) in South Africa, said yesterday that to enhance trade on the continent, Africa needed to address the question of eliminating barriers by harmonising policies and legislation, stressing that that was one of the subjects being looked at during the ongoing meeting.
He said what needed to be looked at was taking advantage of each country's competitive advantage and maximise their use in the region.
Speaker Matibini cited the development of telecommunications, the road and rail network as some of the key infrastructure that needed to be rationalised in order to push the agenda for the region.
"The unfortunate legacy that needs to be replaced is where most of the trade is actually done with other continents; Europe, Americas, the Asia and so forth; and yet among Africa countries there is very little trade going on," Speaker Matibini observed in a statement issued by first secretary for press at Zambia's High Commission in South Africa, Patson Chilemba.
He stressed the need for the development of strategies within the legislative branches of government that would assist their counterparts in the Executive to accelerate the integration of African economies, thereby increasing trade which would then translate into poverty reduction and wealth sharing.
Speaker Matibini said the Zambian Parliament was part of the broad strategy to ensure that Africa harmonised its policies and programmes for increased international trade on the continent, adding that in the absence of legislative power, PAP could come up with prototype laws which could then be adopted by member countries.
"Through participation of the Speakers and delegates to PAP, members of parliament, together they can develop legislation which would be sold, so to speak, to the national Parliaments so that we develop a common approach and standards towards legislation," Speaker Matibini said, adding that this was feasible.
"You see we have so much in common than differences. And as you know Africa in its present state, boundaries etc, is actually a legacy of colonialism…I think it would be beneficial if we use all our comparative advantages to ensure that we promote trade amongst African countries."
Speaker Matibini was leading a Zambian delegation to the 2013 Conference of Speakers of African Parliaments in Midrand, South Africa. The conference which started on Thursday ended yesterday.
Other members of the delegation included Doris Katai Mwinga, Clerk of the National Assembly; Roy Ngulube, executive assistant to the Speaker, and John Chelu, aide-de-camp to the Speaker.
Labels: ANDREW MATIBINI, REGIONAL INTEGRATION, TRADE
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Matibini calls for intra-Africa trade
By Masuzyo Chakwe
Sat 17 Aug. 2013, 14:01 CAT
SPEAKER of the National Assembly Dr Patrick Matibini says Africa needs to eliminate the unfortunate legacy of conducting more trade with other continents when there is very little intra-Africa trade. And Speaker Matibini says Africa's present state is due to colonialism.
Speaker Matibini, who is currently attending a conference at the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) in South Africa, said yesterday that to enhance trade on the continent, Africa needed to address the question of eliminating barriers by harmonising policies and legislation, stressing that that was one of the subjects being looked at during the ongoing meeting.
He said what needed to be looked at was taking advantage of each country's competitive advantage and maximise their use in the region.
Speaker Matibini cited the development of telecommunications, the road and rail network as some of the key infrastructure that needed to be rationalised in order to push the agenda for the region.
"The unfortunate legacy that needs to be replaced is where most of the trade is actually done with other continents; Europe, Americas, the Asia and so forth; and yet among Africa countries there is very little trade going on," Speaker Matibini observed in a statement issued by first secretary for press at Zambia's High Commission in South Africa, Patson Chilemba.
He stressed the need for the development of strategies within the legislative branches of government that would assist their counterparts in the Executive to accelerate the integration of African economies, thereby increasing trade which would then translate into poverty reduction and wealth sharing.
Speaker Matibini said the Zambian Parliament was part of the broad strategy to ensure that Africa harmonised its policies and programmes for increased international trade on the continent, adding that in the absence of legislative power, PAP could come up with prototype laws which could then be adopted by member countries.
"Through participation of the Speakers and delegates to PAP, members of parliament, together they can develop legislation which would be sold, so to speak, to the national Parliaments so that we develop a common approach and standards towards legislation," Speaker Matibini said, adding that this was feasible.
"You see we have so much in common than differences. And as you know Africa in its present state, boundaries etc, is actually a legacy of colonialism…I think it would be beneficial if we use all our comparative advantages to ensure that we promote trade amongst African countries."
Speaker Matibini was leading a Zambian delegation to the 2013 Conference of Speakers of African Parliaments in Midrand, South Africa. The conference which started on Thursday ended yesterday.
Other members of the delegation included Doris Katai Mwinga, Clerk of the National Assembly; Roy Ngulube, executive assistant to the Speaker, and John Chelu, aide-de-camp to the Speaker.
Labels: PATRICK MATIBINI, REGIONAL INTEGRATION, TRADE
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Chikwanda urges complete overhaul of infrastructure
By Edwin Mbulo in Sesheke
Sat 18 May 2013, 14:01 CAT
FINANCE minister Alexander Chikwanda says the government cannot continue to do business without the complete
overhaul of infrastructure and harmonisation of trade policies.
Speaking when he officially opened the KR30 million Katima Mulilo one-stop border facility, Chikwanda said the government is committed in its resolve to remove bottlenecks such as poor cross border facilities in its quest to promote regional integration.
"The sub-regional economic communities namely SADC and COMESA had identified the North-South corridor as one of the most critical infrastructure requirements for regional integration. The development of the Katima-Mulilo border post is therefore timely and will no doubt significantly contribute towards the fulfillment of the regional integration agenda. We cannot continue to do business as usual without the complete overhaul of infrastructure and harmonisation of trade policies if we want the north-south corridor to meet the challenges of inter regional trade," he said.
Chikwanda said the new border facility would help promote the smooth and efficient flow of goods, facilitate increased intra and inter-regional trade, reduce the cost of doing business and improve the flow of foreign direct investment and ultimately increasing growth and prosperity of the region.
And home affairs minister Edgar Lungu said the Katima Mulilo border post was almost turning into a white elephant in the MMD regime.
He said the border post would ease the movement of the people of Namibia and Zambia especially after the signing of the SADC Protocol by Zambia.
And Western Province minister Mwaliteta said the opening of the border showed the government's commitment to infrastructure development which was critical for social and economic development.
ZRA director general Berlin Msiska said good border facilities would help improve the way the institution conducted its business through increased inspection capacity of targeted traffic.
And a Namibian representative, Cletus Sipapela, said his country was greatly indebted to Zambia for its past assistance during the liberation struggle.
Labels: ALEXANDER CHIKWANDA, CLETUS SIPAPELA, INFRASTRUCTURE, TRADE
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Africa, Asia trade corridors to boost Zambia's economy - Melu
By Henry Sinyangwe
Thu 21 Mar. 2013, 14:00 CAT
MIZINGA Melu says the growing trade corridors between Africa and Asia will further boost Zambia's economy. During the 'Over the counter Bankassurance launch' with African Life Assurance on Tuesday evening, Melu said the bank was adapting to the change in the growth of Zambia's economy. She said she expected the Zambia economy to continue growing at over 7 per cent.
"Zambia's economy has been growing faster over the last five years than at any time in history. And Standard Chartered, as a global company operating in Zambia, is adapting to this change. In fact, adapting to change and to our customers' changing requirements, is something we have been doing successfully in Zambia for 107 years," Melu said.
She said responding to customers' local requirements and local conditions was a hallmark of the bank in Zambia.
Melu said the bank remained unique in its presence and capabilities across its customer segments.
"By meeting our customers' current business requirements and working to meet their future requirements, our strategy has been focused on growing our networks and deepening our relationships," Melu said.
She said the bank was targeting to increase insurance penetration to 10,000 customers in the next five years.
"We started with 199 customers in 2009, to a staggering number of 3,400 in 2012. We hope to increase insurance penetration to 10,000 more bankassurance customers through our ever expanding branch network of 24 outlets," Melu said.
She said the introduction of insurance policies had solidified the bank's standing as a 'one-stop shop' for financial solutions.
Melu said the partnership between the bank and African Life Assurance underscored the value and benefits that customers stood to realize from the blend of expertise and synergy.
And African Life Assurance managing director Gary Corbit said his organisation which currently had 700 young employees aimed to expand to all districts of the country.
Corbit said African Life Assurance would aim to continue providing best services.
Labels: MIZINGA MELU, TRADE
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SA-Zim Investment Forum begins
This article was written by Our reporter on 16 October, at 03 : 43 AM
The fourth edition of the South Africa-Zimbabwe Investment Forum has opened in Harare and 35 firms from the neighbouring country graced the event with a view to look for investment opportunities in various sectors of the economy.
Briefing journalists on the sidelines of the forum, South African Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Elizabeth Thabethe acknowledged the relevance of the indigenisation policy, adding that a number of South African firms operating in Zimbabwe are willing to comply.
More than five South African firms have set up shop in the country while investment proposals for this year have reached US$600 million.
Zimbabwe Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce Mike Bimha said besides direct benefits, there are also some pointers which show progress as far as deepening economic ties between the two countries is concerned.
The Deputy Minister of Economic Planning and Investment Promotion, Samuel Undenge said 70 investment pledges valued at US$680 million have been recorded, a development which shows how the forum is impacting on investment between the two countries.
The investment forum will also be held in Bulawayo in a bid to create awareness on various existing business opportunities in the country.
South Africa is one of Zimbabwe’s biggest trading partners.
However, the trade is skewed in South Africa’s favour with Zimbabwe virtually importing everything.
Labels: INDIGENIZATION AND EMPOWERMENT ACT (ZIMBABWE), TRADE
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Packed agenda for AU Summit
Saturday, 14 July 2012 12:00
African leaders are meeting next week in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to review the political and socio-economic situation on the continent in an effort to promote deeper integration among member states.
The 19th Ordinary Assembly of African Union (AU) Heads of State and Government set for 15-16 July is held under the theme “Boosting Intra-African Trade”. However, one of the major issues likely to dominate the summit is the election for the new chairperson of the AU Commission.
The AU Commission is the executive arm of the union, and is tasked with driving the African development and integration agenda on behalf of the member states.
At the last summit, elections to choose a new chairperson were suspended after no winner emerged despite several rounds of voting.
The Southern African Development Community (SADC)-endorsed candidate, Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, who is also the South African Minister of Home Affairs, is contesting for the post against the incumbent, Jean Ping of Gabon.
SADC said the time for southern Africa to lead the AU Commission is now, since all other regions in Africa have had the opportunity to occupy the top post.
However, there is an unwritten agreement among AU member states that leading nations on the continent such as Egypt, Nigeria and South Africa should not lead the AU Commission.
The outcome of the hugely anticipated elections is likely to change the politics of Africa in many ways.
For example, if elected, Dlamini-Zuma would become the first woman to lead the AU Commission. And failure by Ping to retain his post will also send a strong message to the international community that Africa is not ready to entertain any outside interference in its development agenda.
This follows much disquiet among many African leaders over Ping’s alleged poor handling of recent conflicts on the continent including in Ivory Coast and Libya.
Other issues on the summit agenda include trade, food security, peace and climate change. According to a draft agenda of the summit, African leaders are expected to discuss measures to improve intra-African trade as a crucial instrument for meaningful regional integration, connectivity and development.
Africa is targeting to establish a Continental Free Trade Area (CFTA) by 2017, which is expected to contribute significantly to sustainable economic growth, employment generation, poverty reduction, inflow of foreign direct investment, industrial development and better integration of the continent into the global economy.
The leaders are expected to come up with solutions that will address factors constraining African trade such as restrictive customs procedures, administrative barriers and infrastructure bottlenecks.
The low intra-regional trade figures are mainly a result by poor transport infrastructure on the continent, which increases the costs of transporting products across borders.
In this regard, the summit is expected to give leaders the chance to discuss ways of fund-raising for the US$310 billion required to upgrade infrastructure on the continent over the next 30 years.
When fully operational, the proposed CFTA is expected to increase African intra-regional trade from the present 10 percent to about 40 percent.
With regard to climate change and sustainable development, the leaders are set to discuss, among other things, the outcome of the recent Rio+20 Summit on sustainable development held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The summit failed to produce a more binding international agreement on sustainable development, and instead came up with the “The Future We Want” declaration, which many say lacks the political will to address emerging challenges such as hunger and climate change.
Also on the agenda for the summit is the African Leaders’ Malaria Alliance Forum (ALMA), under which the heads of state and government are to utilise their collective power to keep out the scourge of malaria.
On food security, leaders are expected to review the implementation of various programmes to boost production. These interventions include the allocation of substantial budgets to agriculture and investment in technology such as irrigation and improved seeds, fertilisers and pesticides.
With respect to the political situation on the continent, leaders are expected to receive reports on ongoing mediation processes in the political problems in Somalia, Madagascar, Guinea Bissau and Niger. — sardc.net.
Labels: AU, REGIONAL INTEGRATION, TRADE
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COMMENT - Sweden, a fount of neoliberal economic advice: " She said developed countries like Sweden could never have developed during the last hundred years if they never opened for trade and improved the time of doing business. " That's right, Sweden developed because of 'free trade'.
Swedish envoy calls for more trade
By Misheck Wangwe in Kitwe
Fri 15 June 2012, 13:23 CAT
SWEDISH Ambassador to Zambia Lena Nordstrom says the country needs to trade more to end poverty and enhance economic development.
In an interview after an export seminar in Kitwe organised by the Open Trade Gate of Sweden, the Embassy of Sweden and the Zambia Development Agency, Ambassador Nordstrom said strengthened partnership in export would bring meaningful income for various entrepreneurs thereby enhancing economic and human development.
She said developed countries like Sweden could never have developed during the last hundred years if they never opened for trade and improved the time of doing business.
"Today in Sweden we need both to import and export in order to develop and survive as a country and as an economy. We have seen the economic development of Zambia being steady, between five and seven per cent since 2004; that's fabulous. We have seen Zambia improve in doing the business index that we all follow; that's also good news," Ambassador Nordstrom said.
She said facilitating growth of business particularly in import and export required clear policies and regulations for the business growth to be translated into tangible economic development.
Ambassador Nordstrom said many Swedish companies were interested in doing business with Zambia hence the need to strengthen trade ties for the benefit of both countries.
"We want to see more products organised by Zambians doing business in that direction because it is also beneficial for both of us. Swedish companies are interested in the mining activities as well. We have a project called Meeting Points Mining where we are working with the Zambian Geological Survey and the University of Zambia to see what we can share for skills training and many more activities," Ambassador Nordstrom said.
She said Sweden and Zambia had common interests as they were both mining countries and had continued to share ideas on sustainable mining.
"If you look at iron ore at the world market, we all thought it was gone but there is a new boom and we are mining for iron ore in the north of Sweden. These are ideas we should continue sharing and see how development could be attained through copper mining in Zambia," said Ambassador Nordstrom.
Labels: NEOLIBERALISM, SWEDEN, TRADE
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‘Use Zimbabwe-China fair to create robust business linkages’
Friday, 08 June 2012 12:00
IN the last decade, the Government has adopted the Look East Policy in a bid to bust sanctions imposed on the country in early 2000 by the West. And in recent years, there has been a considerable increase in trade and investment between Zimbabwe and China.
However, locals are facing difficulties in trading with China because of the size of the Chinese economy and the complexity of the industrial structure. To this end, Africa Economic Development Strategies in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries, the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce and the Chinese Embassy are hosting the first ever Zimbabwe China Trade Fair.
Our business reporter Martin Kadzere (MK) spoke to AEDS chief executive Mr Gift Mugano (GM) about the Zim-China fair to be held next month.
MK: What are the objectives of the fair?
GM: It seeks, inter alia, to create business linkages between the companies of the two countries. The fair will be held at the Rainbow Towers in Harare, from July 2-4. It will run under the theme “Unleashing Zimbabwe’s Potential: Turning Minerals into Dollars”.
MK: Which companies are you expecting from China?
GM: We expect companies participating at this grand occasion from China to come from various sectors which include electronics, hardware — building materials, construction and machinery, industrial equipment — motor industry and buses, clothing and textiles, cosmetics and beauty products, agro-chemicals and equipment, medicines and pharmaceuticals. We are happy that quite a number of companies from China have confirmed their participation.
MK: What about local companies?
GM: In Zimbabwe and the region, we expect participants to come from similar sectors. You are obviously aware that China is the new economic powerhouse in the world and most economies including Western countries are also looking to the Chinese.
Our companies are constantly sourcing (various goods) from China and most of them are failing to penetrate the Chinese market because of a number of factors such as the language barrier and the intimidating structure of the Chinese economy. As a result, most of our companies have resorted to buying from South African companies which have strong international supply chain management.
We have taken note of this as AEDS and we believe this trade fair will address these procurement challenges.
MK: Will you have a platform during the fair where traders and investors can interact?
GM: We are going to have a match making symposium, a platform where traders and investors meet during exhibitions and create networks.
The end result is creation of business linkages of related business which result in a number of benefits including smooth, easier and solid networks in supply chain management; trade facilitation between Zimbabwe and Asian countries and significantly lowering the costs of doing business.
At the end of the fair we are hoping that investment and trade relationships between Zimbabwe, Chinese clients and other investors will become stronger.
Competitive insights of Zimbabwe’s opportunities for investment and growth, opportunities to negotiate with the potential investors and traders, introduction to new products and services and realisation of the benefits of Zimbabwe-China engagement in global economy are expected.
The trade fair will certainly provide an excellent opportunity for potential and current investors to engage with Zimbabwe and exploit its vast investment opportunities.
MK: Who are the speakers?
GM: They include Minister of Industry and Commerce Prof Welshman Ncube, who will be the guest of honour, Deputy Prime Minister Professor Arthur Mutambara, Minister of Economic Planning and Investment Promotion Tapiwa Mashakada, and Youth Development, Indigenisation and Empowerment Minister Saviour Kasukuwere. Others are Minister of Mines and Mining Development Dr Obert Mpofu, Ambassador Chris Mutsvangwa and various speakers from the business community and development partners.
Participants will also have an opportunity to interact with various high-powered speakers who will be making presentations which are expected to set the tone on how Zimbabwe and China can turn their strong political relations into robust economic ties.
MK: What are the registration procedures?
GM: For the registration, Africa Economic Development Strategies has joined hands with the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce and Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries. Companies can therefore register either with AEDS, CZI or ZNCC.
Labels: CHINA, TRADE
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Ngilazi urges enhanced business ties between Zambia, Malawi
By Gift Chanda
Sat 10 Mar. 2012, 13:00 CAT
ZAMBIA'S Deputy High Commissioner to Malawi Henry Ngilazi has urged Zambian and Malawian entrepreneurs to strengthen business linkages through trade and product exhibitions.
According to a statement by first secretary for press at the Zambian High Commission in Malawi, Chansa Kabwela, Ngilazi urged the business community in Zambia to take advantage of the forthcoming 24th Malawi International Trade Fair to exhibit their products and services.
Ngilazi also said the Zambian High Commission had extended an invitation to the business community in Malawi to exhibit at the 48th Zambia International Trade Fair slated for June 27 in Ndola under the theme "Creating Synergies Beyond Borders".
"We are looking at the Zambia International Trade Fair as an opportunity to showcase what we have to offer as a country and also strengthen partnerships and create more linkages with other business entities in the Southern African region and beyond," said Ngilazi.
"As Africa and particularly the Southern African region aspires for greater regional integration, there is need to take advantage of such platforms, international trade fairs, to market the various services and products that our countries have to offer. Such events provide an opportunity for joint venture partnerships apart from helping to attract direct investment and establish local contacts."
The fair in Malawi is scheduled for May 25 to June 3, 2012 dubbed "Realising Our vision - The export way".
The fair which would be held in Blantyre is expected to bring together exhibitors from Africa, Europe, Asia and America and would give companies an opportunity to market their products and services, enhance brand and product visibility thus leading to increased sales.
According to Kabwela, apart from exhibitions of products and services, the Malawian fair would offer activities such as business to business matchmaking meetings, business sessions and cocktails, all aimed at creating and strengthening linkages between local and international exhibitors and introducing new products and services, among other benefits.
Labels: MALAWI, TRADE
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Kenya, Zambia agree to deepen trade relations
By Moses Kuwema
Sat 10 Mar. 2012, 12:57 CAT
ZAMBIA and Kenya have emphasised the need to resolve outstanding issues on palm based oil, milk and milk products.
In a joint communiqué issued at the close of the 8th session of the Zambia and Kenya joint permanent commission of cooperation at Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka yesterday, the delegates from both countries observed that the outstanding issues on milk and palm- based oil were affecting the volume of bilateral trade.
The delegates observed that there was need to revive the discussions and development of a Bilateral Trade Agreement.
"At the bilateral level, the two heads of delegation expressed satisfaction on the existing warm and friendly relations between the two countries," read the communiqué.
The delegates further emphasised the importance of implementation and agreed on a follow up mechanism that would improve execution of decisions.
During the same session, the delegates reviewed on-going cooperation between the two countries on a wide range of areas including, trade, industry and investment, customs and excise, transport, information and communication, meteorology, education, science and technology.
Other areas included mining, immigration, agriculture and livesto ckdevelopment, tourism and wildlife, environment and natural resources, labour, justice, health, crime prevention and foreign affairs.
"The two delegations undertook to enhance bilateral and technical cooperation by supporting each other in the above areas through exchange programmes, exchange of information, training and capacity building," read the communiqué.
The communiqué further read that in this regard, Zambia and Kenya signed a Memorandum of Understanding in science, technology and innovation with the objective of enhancing cooperation between the two countries.
The delegates further acknowledged the importance of allocating resources and setting of time frames within which agreed areas of cooperation in the various sectors would be implemented.
The 9th session of the Zambia-Kenya Joint Permanent Commission of cooperation will be held in Nairobi, Kenya in 2014.
And Kenya's Minster of Trade Chirau Ali Mwakwere said his country's cooperation with Zambia in security matters was critical in view of the challenges posed by terrorism.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of session on Thursday, Mwakwere said he was happy to note that the two countries had continued to have a strong partnership in the realisation of mutual goals of peace and security in the Horn of Africa and the Great Lakes region.
"I am confident that we will further deepen this cooperation through our membership in regional and international organisations," Mwakwere said.
And Mwakwere said in as far as agreements were concerned, the real challenge was not so much in the negotiations but in the implementation of decisions reached.
He hoped that the experts sitting at the meeting would take into account modalities to ensure that tangible results from the agreements and Memoranda of Understanding were concluded.
Mwakwere further said in this regard it was important to establish realistic timeframes for the various activities that the two countries intend to undertake.
And speaking at the same event, acting foreign affairs minister Dr John Phiri urged the two delegations to take the session as an opportunity for the two parties to review and analyse progress, challenges and explore new opportunities of cooperation.
Labels: KENYA, TRADE
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Zimbabwe Equatorial Guinea sign special co-operation deals
Wednesday, 11 January 2012 00:00
Assistant News Editor
ZIMBABWE and Equatorial Guinea yesterday signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Special Co-operation that will create mechanisms for bilateral co-operation and debt settling.
An Equatorial Guinea delegation arrived ahead of their President Teodoro Obiang Nguema's official visit. President Nguema left Harare yesterday afternoon and was seen off by Acting President John Nkomo, service chiefs and several Government officials at the Harare International Airport.
The MoU, signed by Acting Foreign Affairs Minister Nicholas Goche and Equatorial Guinea's Mines, Infrastructure and Energy Minister Marcelino Owono Edu, seeks to boost mutual understanding and co-operation between the two countries.
It also seeks to enhance development and strengthen the existing friendly relations and review co-operation in the oil sector.
The MoU will develop co-operation in capacity-building for Equatorial Guinea and promotion of investments and joint ventures.
Zimbabwe and Equatorial Guinea agreed to develop programmes in education and training, public administration, defence and security, support for Equatorial Guinea's industrialisation programme, agriculture, agro-industry and livestock production.
The two countries agreed to set up specific projects in mining, infrastructure development, communication and commerce. Technical experts from both countries will develop programmes and projects for consideration as a matter of urgency.
Equatorial Guinea requested a comprehensive list of consumer goods produced in Zimbabwe. Minister Goche hailed the MoU signing as an indication of firming relations between the two countries.
"Zimbabwe is fully committed to the implementation of the MoU and we are looking forward to corresponding visits by our officials to push forward its implementation."
Minister Owono Edu urged both countries to work hard towards the full implementation of the MoU.
"It is now up to us to put together what we have into practice," he said.
Labels: TRADE
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Zimbabwe, Namibia in trade talks
Posted by By Our reporter at 10 November, at 06 : 54 AM
The Namibian and Zimbabwean governments are meeting in Walvis Bay to discuss matters of trade between the two Southern African Development Community (Sadc) member states.
Ministers of trade from both countries are present, and alongside business delegations from the Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) and the Zimbabwean National Chamber of Commerce are holding talks on how best to bolster the trade agreements that exist between the two countries.
Representatives attending the meetings are from the manufacturing, construction, food and retail sectors as well as a representative from the Namibia Manufacturers Association (NMA).
The visit creates an ideal environment for the exploration of opportunities and business-to-business exchanges between the two business communities.
Zimbabwe and Namibia signed a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) in 1992 that provides for the exclusion of customs duty for goods with 25 percent local content.
However, trade between the two countries is still very limited in contrast to the cordial relations the two governments have, which is also reflective of intra-regional trade in the rest of the Sadc region.
Sadc trade is still heavily skewed in favour of developed economies despite a push for regional countries to trade amongst themselves.
South Africa being the economic powerhouse derives major trade benefits from the countries in the hinterland – despite a push by Sadc principals to encourage trade beyond South Africa.
Labels: NAMIBIA, REGIONAL INTEGRATION, TRADE, ZIMBABWE
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Firms urged to explore Zambian market
Friday, 01 July 2011 01:00
From Martin Kadzere in Ndola, Zambia
ZIMBABWE Trade attaché to Zambia Mrs Stella Nyangweta has urged Zimbabwean companies to "vigorously" start exploring business opportunities on the Copper-belt.
She spoke on the sidelines of the ongoing 47th edition of the Zambia International Trade Fair being held in the country's third largest city Ndola.
"Improved copper mining activities in the (Copperbelt) province would provide good opportunities for local businesses in engineering, construction and protective clothing," she said.
"We have been concentrating on Lusaka and now that the Copperbelt is coming up, companies back home must seriously direct their efforts in penetrating this market.
"Opportunities are growing in sectors such as engineering, protective clothing and construction. I am confident that local companies can benefit from that Copperbelt's growth."
The ZITF opened here on Tuesday with 13 Zimbabwean companies are participating.
The exhibition, under the theme "Innovation for competitiveness", has also attracted companies from within the region and Africa.
Although it has started at a slow pace, with some of the exhibitors still setting up their stands, a ZITF spokesperson said the activities are likely to pick up during the course of the day.
"We are happy to have Zimbabwean companies," said a ZITF spokesperson. "It is a very important improvement on what we had last year.
"Zimbabwe has become one of our major trading partners and this is an appropriate platform to enhance trade relations with Harare and the rest of the region."
Among Zimbabwean companies participating are Hwange Colliery Company Limited, which already enjoys a strong market for its coal in Zambia.
Some of the companies that came under the ZimTrade banner include PG Industries, Art Corporation, Zesa Enterprises and ZECO Holdings.
ZimTrade operations manager Mr Stanley Tupiri applauded companies participating at the fair, saying it would present them with an opportunity to benefit from rejuvenated business in the Copperbelt.
"Local companies really need to explore the Copperbelt as it provides quite (a lot of) tremendous opportunities. "Even those companies that have not come for the trade fair should start taking this market seriously."
Zambia has in the last few years overtaken South Africa as Zimbabwe's biggest trading partner on the continent and it remains a market hugely unexplored by local companies due to lack of information.
But opportunities to expand the trade and economic partnership could be greatly enhanced by the steady economic recovery Zimbabwe has made, which will enable it to produce more for the Zambian export market.
Labels: COPPERBELT PROVINCE, TRADE, ZAMBIA, ZIMBABWE
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Schweppes signs accord with CTC
Thursday, 09 June 2011 21:51
By Helen Mubvumbi
BEVERAGES manufacturer
Schweppes Zimbabwe Limited has become
the first company in Zimbabwe to sign a voluntary competition compliance agreement with the Competition and Tariffs Commission. The Competition Compliance Agreement shows a company's commitment to comply with the provisions of the country's Competition Act.
Speaking at the signing ceremony yesterday, Competition and Tariff Commission director Mr Alexander Kubuda said the signing of the agreement would benefit Schweppes so that it can detect in time any violation of the competition law.
"Competition is the blood of vibrant markets as it is aimed at enterprise efficiency and development in that it forces firms to become efficient and to be innovative," he said.
"Schweppes Zimbabwe's willingness to comply with the country's competition shows the company's commendable efforts of maintaining its position as an exemplary market leader and good corporate citizen.
"It enables the company to detect any violation of the competition law at an early stage to enable it to take the necessary corrective measures before the intervention of the commission."
Mr Kubuda said Schweppes decided to adopt the competition compliance programme, not because the company had violated any provisions of the Act, but because the company had grown through mergers and acquisitions to the extent that it had become one of the dominant players in the beverages industry.
Schweppes' signing of the agreement involved active efforts on the part of the company to comply with the provisions of the act with the primary objective of preventing violation of the country's competition law and promoting a culture of compliance within its structures.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Schweppes Zimbabwe managing director Mr Charles Msipa said the compliance agreement is a milestone in the company's efforts to create a culture of competition in the country.
"As Schweppes, we ventured into the compliance programme to promote a culture of awareness of the laws, also to protect the consumers from the risk of being violated by our brands," he said.
Mr Msipa said the signing of the compliance agreement was at the back of localisation of the company last year and Schweppes would soon start a compliance programme to educate their employees on the rules and regulations that come with the Competition Act.
Zimbabwe's competition law, which is enshrined in the Competition Act is aimed at protecting and maintaining competition in the economy by preventing and controlling restrictive practices and monopoly situations, prohibiting unfair business practices and regulating mergers and acquisitions.
Labels: COMPETITION, TRADE
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SADC engages Maureen to address cross border trade meeting
By Florence Bupe
Fri 29 Oct. 2010, 04:00 CAT
THE Southern African Development Community (SADC) has engaged Maureen Mwanawasa as one of the prominent people to address the forthcoming high level meeting on Informal Cross Border Trade in southern Africa.
According to the official invitation letter signed by SADC deputy executive secretary for regional integration Joao Samuel Caholo, Maureen is scheduled to speak on the topic ‘Why SADC should Focus on ICBTs (Informal Cross Border Traders): Advancing Trade and Women’s Empowerment’ on November 1, 2010.
The ICBT meeting is set to take place in Harare, Zimbabwe, from November 1 to 3, 2010.
Caholo stated that ICBT had continued to be one of the ignored sectors in the region despite its vast contribution to economic growth and development.
It has also been observed that ICBT in the southern African region is a matter of gender as the majority of those actively involved in the sector are women.
And a letter from Maureen’s office indicated that the former first lady had accepted the invitation as well as the role of advocating for enhanced ICBT in the region.
The meeting will be jointly funded by the United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM) and the European Union.
Two senior government officials from each member state representing gender and trade ministries are expected to attend the meeting.
Labels: ICBT, JOAO SAMUEL CAHOLO, MAUREEN MWANAWASA, SADC, TRADE
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Zambia needs to secure its market position in the DRC - Michelo
By Chiwoyu Sinyangwe
Fri 29 Oct. 2010, 04:01 CAT
ZAMBIA needs to secure its market position in the DRC by introducing new companies, Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) director of export promotion Glyne Michelo has advised.
Delivering a key note speech on Wednesday on the occasion of the 10th trade mission to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Michelo said there was need for Zambia to maintain and expand its market share in the vast Central African country.
At the moment, DRC - mainly Katanga Province - is the largest export market for Zambian non-traditional export products and is the largest in both the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) and Southern Africa Development Community (SADC).
Zambia this year plans to boost its exports to DRC to more than US $2 billion from US $1.4 billion in 2009, taking advantage of the flexible trade terms.
“In order for us to maintain and expand the market share for Zambian companies and also introduce other companies,” said Michelo who is also in charge of market development at ZDA, “it is imperative to relentlessly undertake such promotional activities that enable exporters from the two countries to build their capacities and network among themselves for the common good.”
Michelo led export-ready companies dealing in various non traditional goods and services that included agro-seed, cement, timber, protective clothing, safety clothing, leather and leather products, engineering products, pharmaceutical products, food items among others.
“I am certain that the business people from the two countries will use this platform to strengthen their business links that will culminate into actual execution of business transactions,” said Michelo.
“It is gatherings like this that we will be able to put faces to our emails and telephone conversations and this will enhance our market visibility and develop relations that are mutually beneficial.”
Labels: DRC, GLYNE MICHELO, TRADE
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Libya, Zambia boost trade relations - Ambassador Swiexi
By Chibaula Silwamba
Sat 25 Sep. 2010, 04:01 CAT
LIBYAN ambassador Khalifa Omar Swiexi has said his country and Zambia are working towards enhancing and developing economic and trade relations through investments in communication and tourism.
And local government and housing minister Dr Eustarckio Kazonga has said it would be important for Zambia and Libya to ensure that continental unity was preserved at all times in collective march towards political and economic integration.
Speaking at the 41st anniversary of the September 1st Revolution or Libyan day in Lusaka on Thursday, Ambassador Swiexi commended Zambia’s past presidents and President Rupiah Banda for deepening the Libya-Zambia relationship.
“This confirms their keenness of strengthening the relations between the two sister countries and to achieve the aspirations of the two peoples, as they also consult and coordinate their stands for the benefit of the people of the continent to achieve their dream of unity,” said Ambassador Swiexi.
And Dr Kazonga said the Zambian government was appreciative of the friendship and mutually beneficial cooperation that had characterized the bilateral relations.
Dr Kazonga called for unity among African countries.
Former president Frederick Chiluba and his wife Regina, former first lady Maureen Mwanawasa, Forum for Democracy and Development (FDD) president Edith Nawakwi were among the grandees that attended the celebrations at Taj Pamodzi Hotel.
Labels: EUSTARKIO KAZONGA, KHALIFA OMAR SWIEXI, LIBYA, TRADE
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Beira key to Zambia’s business expansion-RB
Friday, August 20, 2010, 19:26
President Rupiah Banda speaking to Maputo City Governor Lucia Hama at national monument after laying wreath. President Rupiah Banda has said the port of Beira in Mozambique is key towards Zambia’s process of expanding her business through imports and exports.
President Banda said the port of Beira provides Zambia with the shortest sea route as compared to Durban, Cape Town East London in South Africa and Dar- Es- Salaam in Tanzania.
He said Zambia was exploring shorter ways to the sea coast because of her determination to expand business relations with other countries.
ZANIS reports from Mozambique that President Banda was speaking in Beira, Mozambique yesterday where he went to tour facilities at the port of Beira.
“We have already agreed as presidents of the two countries that it is our duty to ensure that everyone is involved in ensuring that these agreements are not only on paper. We really want to expand our business and Beira is our key to all this,” he said.
Yesterday, Zambia and Mozambique signed eight legal instruments, among them an agreement on communications and transport and a Memorandum of Understanding to establish ties of cooperation between chambers of commerce in the two countries.
The President said his visit to Mozambique was a demonstration of his Government’s commitment to expanding business relations with other countries.
He said there was need for leaders of the two neighbouring countries to expose themselves to some facilities that can boost economic growth in the region.
Mr. Banda said once the leaders of the two countries were exposed to such facilities, it would be easy for their citizens to appreciate their efforts of economically developing these nations through expanding business.
President Banda meanwhile noted that many Zambian citizens were ignorant of the port of Beira and what it could offer.
He has since challenged the media in both countries to help publicise the Beira port for the public to understand its potentials.
And speaking at the same occasion, Minister of Communications and Transport, Geoffrey Lungwangwa, disclosed that the Zambian government was contemplating building a rail line from Kafue in Zambia to Lions’ Den in Zimbabwe.
Professor Lungwangwa said the line will link Zambia to the port of Beira through Lions’ Den in Zimbabwe.
He said despite passing through Zimbabwe, the rail line will be the shortest route to the sea for Zambia.
He added that in future, the Chipata-Mchinji rail line may be extended to Tete in Mozambique.
Presisdent Banda is in Mozambique for a three day state visit.
ZANIS
Labels: BEIRA, INFRASTRUCTURE, LUCIA HAMA, MOZAMBIQUE, RAIL, RUPIAH BANDA, TRADE
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Zambia records trade surplus
By Fridah Zinyama
Fri 28 May 2010, 08:00 CAT
THE Central Statistical Office (CSO) has revealed that Zambia recorded a trade surplus valued at K1.1 trillion last month. And the annual rate of inflation, as measured by the all items Consumer Price Index (CPI) has reduced slightly to 9.1 per cent this month from 9.2 per cent last month.
The recent increase in fuel prices will be reflected in the June 2010 CPI.
Releasing the monthly bulletin yesterday, CSO director Efreda Chulu said the trade surplus meant that the country exported more in April than it imported.
Chulu attributed the slight decline in inflation to the decrease in some food prices that the country experienced.
“Of the total 9.1 per cent annual inflation in May 2010, food products accounted for 3.2 percentage points, while non-food products in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) accounted for a total of 5.9 percentage points,” she said. “The annual food inflation rate was recorded at 6.5 per cent in May 2010, a decline from 7.3 per cent in April 2010.”
Chulu said the annual non-food inflation rate was recorded at 11.6 per cent in May 2010, an increase from 11.2 per cent in April 2010.
“Regarding disaggregate groups, the annual inflation rates declined for clothing and footwear, household fuel and lighting, furniture and household goods and services,” she pointed out. “But the annual inflation rates increased for medical care, transport and communication, recreation and education.”
Chulu added that a comparison of retail prices between last month and this month, shows that the national average price of a 25 kilogramme (kg) bag of white roller meal declined by 5.1 per cent from K48,940 to K46,459, while the average price of a 20 litre tin of maize grain declined by 14.2 per cent, from K23,871 to K20,473.
“The national average price of a 1kg of tomatoes declined by 5.1 per cent, from K4,011 to K3,806, while the national average price of a 1kg of dried Kapenta Siavonga increased by 3.6 per cent from K51,982 to K53,874,” she said.
Meanwhile, Chulu said Zambia’s major export products in April 2010 were from the intermediate goods category accounting for 76.9 per cent comprising mainly copper cathodes and sections of refined copper and copper blister.
“The raw materials category was second with 18.2 per cent comprising mainly of copper ores and concentrates; and cobalt ore concentrates,” said Chulu. “Other exports were consumer goods and capital goods collectively accounting for 5.0 per cent of total exports for April 2010.”
Labels: CPI, CSO, EFREDA CHULU, TRADE
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SMEs urged to learn new business techniques
Wednesday, May 26, 2010, 22:20
ZAMBIA Development Agency (ZDA) Regional Entrepreneurship Development Officer Shental Siajunza has called on Small and Medium Entrepreneur (SME ) business organisations to develop interest in learning new techniques in running their businesses.
ZDA Regional Entrepreneurship Development Officer made his call at a one day workshop organised by COMESA at Kasama Lodge on Monday this week.
Mr. Siajunza said SMEs should take advantage of the workshop and advance in running their business profitably and effectively through joining relevant trade organisations.
He pointed out that by linking with relevant organisations like COMESA they could avoid paying trade taxes to councils and exorbitant border charges.
Mr. Siajunza thanked Zambia national Commercial bank for sponsoring the workshop to expose the SMEs in Kasama to modern trade techniques and enhance the development of the district.
He further praised COMESA for offering free a free training kit to SMEs in Kasama which would go a long way in enhancing smooth business operations.
Mr. Siajunza pointed out that SMEs should making joint trips when importing items abroad to cut down on costs which could result into economic growth of their businesses.
Meanwhile Zambia National Commercial Bank (ZANACO) Head Business Banking SME Manager at Head office Chibamba Lopa said his Bank is proud to sponsor SME workshop to empower local businesses in national.
Mr. Lopa said ZANACO is aiming at promoting and empowering Small and Medium Business Entrepreneurship by providing conducive business climate to it clients and achieve economic growth.
The Head Business Banking SME Manager disclosed that his bank has reduced Bank interest rate to 20 Per cent from 32 with effect from May 1 this year.
Mr. Lopa added that ZANACO is also geared in offering short tern loans, credit facilities in overdrafts and make their customers comfortable by spending shorter times at their branches national wide.
[ZANIS]
Labels: COMESA, KASAMA, SMEs, TRADE, WORKSHOPS, ZDA
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