Sundaymail Editor
Online Reporter
IN a major step towards strengthening intra-African trade and economic resilience, Zimbabwe has been selected to host this year’s edition of the AfCFTA (African Continental Free Trade Area) Association of African Commodity Exchanges (A-ACX) annual conference in March.
Running from March 27 in Victoria Falls, the conference will feature high-level continental and global speakers and panellists ranging from commodities exchanges, financial and logistics services providers, Government officials and many others in the commodities value chain.
The fact that Zimbabwe was selected to host this conference underscores the country’s growing influence in the continental commodities market and its commitment to objectives of the AfCFTA.
The A-ACX, an alliance of commodity exchanges across Africa, was established to foster collaboration and alignment with AfCFTA’s broader goals of catalysing economic growth and promoting trade among African nations.
The association aims to play a pivotal role in advancing intra-African trade in commodities and related services, providing a platform for innovation, market development and regional economic integration.
The theme of the upcoming conference, “Scaling Intra-African Trade: Leveraging Commodity Exchanges for Economic Resilience and Growth”, reflects the shared vision of enhancing Africa’s trade ecosystem.
The event is set to address critical issues such as harmonising trade practices across African markets, building Pan-African supply chains, promoting investment in the continent’s abundant resources and advocating for policy reforms to unlock the potential of regional trade.
Zimbabwe, through the Zimbabwe Mercantile Exchange (ZMX), has been a key contributor to A-ACX’s initiatives.
“As the host nation, Zimbabwe is tasked with managing a comprehensive agenda for the conference, which will bring together key stakeholders, including commodity exchange leaders, policymakers and international organisations.
“The conference will feature a diverse array of sessions, discussions and networking opportunities designed to share knowledge, build capacity and explore innovative strategies for market development,” said ZMX in a statement.
“Hosting the A-ACX Annual Conference represents a significant milestone for Zimbabwe, offering numerous benefits.”
Zimbabwe will showcase its contributions to the continent’s commodities market, highlighting its innovative frameworks and market development strategies.
It is also expected to attract investments in commodities and natural resources, sectors vital to Zimbabwe’s economy.
ZMX, which has been at the forefront of transforming Zimbabwe’s commodities market, will gain a platform to highlight its innovative frameworks and inspire other African nations.
The conference will also provide a boost to Zimbabwe’s tourism and hospitality sectors, welcoming delegates from across the continent.
Additionally, local stakeholders will have the opportunity to engage with international experts, gaining valuable insights to further develop Zimbabwe’s commodities market.
Online Reporter