adminInternational Trade, Regional Integration and International Co-operation Minister Priscilla Misihairabwi-Mushonga said countries such as Zimbabwe stood to benefit from the customs union than the FTA.
She said the region had signed into the FTA negotiations but debate was still going on for its implementation.
The launch of the FTA, Minister Misihairabwi-Mushonga, said was scheduled for next year.
Zaka East legislator Mr Samson Mukanduri chairs the committee.
“Big boys in the region would want the Free Trade Area while smaller ones would want the customs union,” Minister Misihairabwi-Mushonga said.
“Obviously, big countries like South Africa would want the Free Trade Area and if these big boys have their way then we might have the Free Trade Area.”
She said the country was looking forward to establishing a ports authority that would ease congestion at the country’s ports of entry.
Minister Misihairabwi-Mushonga said bureaucratic processes that people have to go through at the borders were a cause for concern.
She said the ports authorities would become a focal point for all travelling logistics to help travellers to be served at the same place.
Minister Misihairabwi-Mushonga said there was a need for a legal framework that would enable the Government to adopt the new initiative.
Online Reporter
- Herald
- July 31, 2026
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