Zambia and Tanzania Unite to Break Trade Barriers and Boost Growth
Zambia and Tanzania have kicked off their Fourth Bilateral Trade Meeting, aiming to address persistent trade barriers and strengthen economic cooperation between the two countries. The meeting highlights the importance of bilateral trade relations in advancing African economic integration amid a rapidly changing global trade environment.
The technical-level meeting seeks to review progress on key action points agreed during the previous meeting in Tanzania from 15–18 April 2024, particularly tackling Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs) that hinder trade and economic growth.
In his opening remarks, Zambia’s Technical Level Co-Chairperson, Dr. Simon Ng’ona, Director of Foreign Trade at the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry, highlighted the pivotal role of both governments and the private sector in promoting cross-border trade.
“We need to carefully look at these persistent Non-Tariff Barriers and collectively agree on how we can resolve them,” Dr. Ng’ona said. “Integration within Africa will have to start at a bilateral level, and we are committed to working together to achieve this goal.”
Dr. Ng’ona expressed confidence that open and constructive dialogue would allow both countries to identify solutions addressing traders’ concerns, while supporting broader objectives such as industrialisation, value addition, and regional integration.
He also acknowledged Tanzania’s significant role in regional affairs, particularly within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Tanzania’s Technical Level Co-Chairperson, Dr. Freddy Liundi, Director of Trade Integration at the Ministry of Industry and Trade, emphasised the strong bonds of brotherhood and cooperation between the two nations, citing their shared history, mutual respect, and joint vision for regional integration and sustainable development.
Dr. Liundi added that through open dialogue, constructive engagement, and collaboration, both countries aim to deliver concrete outcomes that will enhance trade facilitation and promote prosperity for their citizens.
The meeting provides a platform for Zambia and Tanzania to explore ways of leveraging their strategic locations and resources to strengthen trade cooperation, stimulate investment, and drive economic growth. Officials hope the bilateral discussions will yield actionable measures to overcome trade challenges and advance mutual development goals.
