Zambia and Malawi Relaunch Electronic Certificate of Origin System
The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) and the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) have relaunched the Electronic Certificate of Origin (eCoO) System, in a move set to enhance trade facilitation and digital transformation within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA).
The ceremony, held in Chipata, Eastern Province, brought together government officials, customs leadership, private sector representatives and key stakeholders from both countries.
Speaking on behalf of the Eastern Province Permanent Secretary, Clement Chilembo, Provincial Assistant Secretary Paul Benjamin Tole hailed the initiative as a milestone in regional trade modernisation.
“This achievement demonstrates our leadership and commitment to trade facilitation through digital transformation. It builds confidence among exporters and importers that our customs processes are not barriers to trade but enablers of growth,” he said.
Malawi Revenue Authority Deputy Commissioner – Facilitation, Chimwemwe Kawalewale, highlighted the importance of the system in driving efficiency and transparency.
“The shift from paper to an electronic system is not just a technological upgrade; it is a strategic move towards enhancing efficiency, transparency and competitiveness in our trade practices. On behalf of the Commissioner General of MRA, we greatly express our appreciation to the Commissioner General and the entire Zambia Revenue Authority for organising this colourful launch ceremony,” he stated.
Meanwhile, ZRA Commissioner – Customs Services, Ernest Sigande, highlighted Zambia’s leadership role in regional integration, stressing the tangible benefits of the eCoO system.
“It delivers reduced costs of doing business, eliminates physical paperwork, and allows faster verification. It empowers exporters both big and small, drives industrial growth, creates jobs, and boosts revenue collection. Together, we are proving that Zambia is not just keeping pace with global trade transformation, we are leading it,” said Mr Sigande.
