SADC to Launch Time Release Study Report on North-South Trade Corridor
The Southern African Development Community (SADC), with support from the European Union (EU) under the Trade Facilitation Programme (TFP), is set to launch the Report of the Time Release Study (TRS) along the SADC Regional North-South Trade Corridor in Harare, Zimbabwe.
The TRS is a globally recognized tool used to measure the time required for goods to move through the supply chain, including customs clearance processes. This study represents the first comprehensive analysis of the North-South Corridor, a key trade route linking major sea ports and border crossings in the region.
The research, coordinated by the SADC Secretariat, spans from Durban port in South Africa to the Kasumbalesa border post in Zambia, covering crucial transit points such as Beitbridge and the Chirundu One Stop Border Post (OSBP).
Endorsed by the SADC Ministerial Task Force on Regional Economic Integration in March 2016, the TFP aims to enhance regional trade efficiency in line with the SADC Treaty and the Protocol on Trade. The TRS is among 28 key activities designed to facilitate trade and improve business conditions within the Free Trade Area.
The study, conducted by customs and trade experts, involved collaboration with supply chain stakeholders and used the World Customs Organisation’s electronic system methodology. Data collection included border and port authorities from South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Following a validation process by SADC Member State experts in March 2024, the final report presents a series of recommendations to streamline clearance procedures and reduce trade barriers.
If implemented effectively, the findings are expected to significantly enhance trade efficiency and economic integration within the region, lowering the cost of doing business and improving the ease of cross-border transactions.
