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Business Writer

A delegation of eight Zimbabwean companies from the building and construction and Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sectors will embark on a trade mission to Botswana this week in a significant move to strengthen bilateral trade relations.

The outward mission aims to actively marry local businesses with Botswana’s business community and unlock new opportunities for Zimbabwean exporters.

Zimbabwe and Botswana have always enjoyed cordial bilateral ties since pre-independence and this week’s mission is significant in continuing to nurture cordial relations between the two countries.

By leveraging the benefits of regional integration and building strong business relationships, the two countries can unlock their full economic potential.

Organised by the Zimbabwe export development and promotion agency, ZimTrade in collaboration with the Botswana Investment and Trade Centre (BITC), the mission would run from tomorrow (Wednesday 13th to Saturday 16th of November 2024 and aims to deepen economic ties between the two neighbouring countries.

Botswana Investment and Trade Centre (BITC)

“The delegation will visit Gaborone, Botswana’s capital city and Francistown, a major commercial hub, to engage with potential suppliers, distributors and retailers,” said ZimTrade in a statement.

“By forging new partnerships and exploring market opportunities, Zimbabwean businesses hope to increase their export volumes to Botswana.”

This initiative aligns seamlessly with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade agenda to increase regional integration and maximise on strategic markets, such as Botswana.

Outside of its proximity to Zimbabwe both countries share favourable trade agreements including a bilateral trade agreement, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Trade Protocol and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

SADC

These agreements offer reduced tariffs on a wide range of goods, making it more cost-effective for Zimbabwean exporters to penetrate the Botswana market.

Reflecting on the mission, Mrs Jacqueline Nyathi, who is ZimTrade southern region manager, expressed optimism about the future of bilateral trade between the two nations.

She highlighted the strong foundation laid through the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between ZimTrade and BITC, which has facilitated increased collaboration and information sharing.

Successful activities like a business forum held in Maun, Botswana, in February 2024, as well as Botswana’s participation in Zimbabwean trade events like the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) and the Zimbabwe Export Week show a positive commitment by both countries to grow trade.

“By participating in trade fairs and exhibitions, Botswana has demonstrated its commitment to expanding its trade relations with Zimbabwe” said Mrs Nyathi,
“This mutual interest in fostering economic co-operation creates a favourable environment for businesses on both sides of the border.”