admin
Speaking during the 4th Investment and Trade Initiative between visiting South African business delegates and Bulawayo business people, the Deputy Minister of Economic Planning and Investment Promotion Dr Samuel Undenge said the Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement signed in 2010 by the Zimbabwean and South African Governments would help in the creation of the economic zones.
“As a ministry we are looking at creating economic zones and we have spotted Beitbridge as an economic zone,” he said.
He said Beitbridge was chosen first because of its proximity to South Africa.
“Once we create this economic zone, it will be set as an investment zone.
“We want to create an economic investment destination,” he said.
He said the economic zones were important as the continent was moving towards economic integration.
South Africa’s Deputy Director General responsible for Enterprise and Development Mr Sipho Zikode said they were busy crafting a special document to guide the 12 identified economic zones in South Africa.
“Messina is one of the chosen economic zones in South Africa and we also want to create linkages with Beitbridge as they are close to each other,” said Mr Zikode.
Dr Undenge said there was need for countries to work together to boost economies on the continent.
The business seminar was held to achieve mutual economic growth and development through outward investment facilitation, infrastructure development and trade liberalisation between Zimbabwe and South Africa.
The seminar was attended by members of the ZNNC and Matabeleland Chamber of Industries.
Online Reporter