Zambia and Malawi Boost Small-Scale Cross-Border Trade Under COMESA STR
Zambia and Malawi have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening small-scale cross-border trade through the effective implementation of the COMESA Simplified Trade Regime (STR).
This followed a bilateral meeting held in Chipata, which brought together senior government officials from both countries, border agencies, and key trade stakeholders to review progress and identify ways to enhance the implementation of the STR.
The meeting was co-chaired by Mrs Margaret Chikuba, Director of Domestic Trade and Commerce at Zambia’s Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry, and Mrs Catherine Chilima, Director of Trade at Malawi’s Ministry of Industrialisation, Business, Trade and Tourism.
Discussions focused on the possible designation of additional border posts under the STR, the removal of non-tariff barriers, harmonisation of customs procedures, and improvements in operational efficiency at border points.
Mrs Chikuba highlighted the STR’s vital role in simplifying customs procedures, reducing transaction costs, and supporting women and youth who rely on cross-border trade for their livelihoods.
She emphasised the need for improved coordination among border agencies, increased trader awareness, and harmonised procedures to ensure consistency and efficiency across borders.
Mrs Chilima commended both countries for sustaining momentum since the last bilateral meeting in 2023. She outlined Malawi’s priorities, which include enhancing the efficiency and inclusiveness of the STR, addressing non-tariff barriers, and strengthening public health and environmental safeguards.
Representatives from TradeMark Africa (TMA) and the COMESA Secretariat reiterated their commitment to supporting capacity building, improved border operations, and data-driven decision-making to enhance the experience of small-scale traders.
