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Business Writer

IN a significant move to strengthen bilateral trade relations, 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.
Organized by the Zimbabwe export development and promotion agency, ZimTrade in collaboration with the Botswana Investment and Trade Centre (BITC), the mission would run from Wednesday from the 13th to the 16th of November 2024 and aims to deepen economic ties between the two neighboring countries.
“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 maximize on strategic markets, such as Botswana.
Outside of its proximity to Zimbabwe both countries share favorable trade agreements including a bilateral trade agreement, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Trade Protocol and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
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 business forum held in Muan, 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 cooperation creates a favorable environment for businesses on both sides of the border.”
…More to follow