Sundaymail Editor
Online Reporter
Zimbabwe has undertaken various ease of doing business reforms that make it easier for investors to tap into lucrative trade opportunities.
The Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Resettlement, Dr Anxious Masuka, told the inaugural United Arab Emirates (UAE)-Zimbabwe Food Agribusiness Virtual Forum that the two countries should leverage on the existing trade opportunities.
“Zimbabwe has substantial comparative advantages and opportunities to transform its agri-food systems,” Dr Masuka said.
“With a uniquely suited agriculturally hospitable and favourable climate, Zimbabwe can leverage on the many trade opportunities with UAE to grow its economy, create more jobs, entrench entrepreneurship and sharpen innovation along various agriculture and food value chains.
“There are various ease of business reforms undertaken in agriculture, for example, through the creation of a one-stop exports office, instead of the previous five offices for export applications.
“Furthermore, we envisage making e-applications and e-processing possible, especially in the Covid-19 pandemic era, to enhance business.
“But we need to do more to facilitate exports, so we welcome views, comments and suggestions for further refinement and improvement.”
He said Zimbabwe plans to export more horticultural produce to the United Arab Emirates, including valued-added produce and products.
Dr Masuka said Government envisages increasing agricultural output to US$8,2 billion by 2025 and to grow exports to US$4,2 billion in the same period.
“We envisage export growth for flowers, fruits, vegetables and nuts. We also anticipate accelerated exports of tobacco, tea and sugar, among many others. Additionally, we yearn for the export of value-added produce and products.”
Online Reporter