Online Reporter
Africa Moyo in Maputo, Mozambique
ZIMBABWEAN and Mozambican businesses must take full advantage of the two countries’ deepening bilateral ties, with relations between Harare and Maputo now shifting from transactional trade to integrated, value-added supply chains that drive investment, employment and shared economic prosperity, President Mnangagwa has said.
Speaking at the Mozambique-Zimbabwe Business Forum jointly organised by ZimTrade, the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (Zida) and Mozambique’s Agência para a Promoção de Investimento e Exportações (Apiex), the President said the recently convened Ni-National Commission (BNC) provided a focused platform to resolve bottlenecks, improve the business environment and accelerate private-sector-led development.
“I, therefore, urge the private sector of our two countries to leverage our strengthened relations to drive greater synergies and win-win co-operation,” said President Mnangagwa.
“Through ZimTrade and Apiex of Mozambique, both countries must now shift from transactional trade, towards predictable value-added supply chains.
“It is critically important that our collective efforts unlock higher value for our primary products while also generating sustainable employment, empowerment and wealth creation.”
President Mnangagwa said regional integration remains central to Zimbabwe’s economic strategy, highlighting ongoing reforms aimed at lowering production and trade costs, enhancing competitiveness and aligning with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
To maximise AfCFTA opportunities, he said Zimbabwe was moving swiftly to harmonise customs systems, eliminate non-tariff barriers and improve logistics along key trade routes.
“We also recognise that the efficient movement of goods from production centres to ports and finally to the markets, is essential for expanding regional trade,” he said.
“As such, we stand ready to transform Forbes-Machipanda into a seamless crossing point that facilitates faster, more predictable and efficient trade.
“Beira and Maputo corridors, remain a strategic priority.
“Progress has been made to increase freight capacity, along that route, including through the rehabilitation of the Machipanda railway.”
He added that coordinated border management and efficient trade facilitation would reduce transit costs and open new opportunities for agricultural, mineral, energy and manufactured exports from both countries.
The President stressed that private-sector participation is essential for the success of the BNC, encouraging joint ventures in agro-processing, logistics, renewable energy, mining services, tourism and manufacturing.
He also called on financial institutions to expand cross-border financing and on business associations to strengthen support for SMEs.
“Financial institutions are also challenged to expand cross-border financing solutions, while business associations must strengthen support to SMEs,” he said.
President Mnangagwa further noted that climate change and energy security present both challenges and opportunities, urging investment in power interconnectors, gas-to-power facilities and renewable mini-grids.
“These must be promoted with a sense of urgency. Co-operation must, also, remain inclusive. Women, youth and marginalised communities should always benefit from expanded trade and investment,” said the President.
Zimbabwe, he said, views Mozambique as a strategic neighbour in both peace and conflict, adding that Harare remains open to investment from Mozambique and encourages Zimbabwean businesses to explore opportunities across the border.
“We must now act with unity of purpose and urgency to realise our shared goals,” said President Mnangagwa.
“Let us seize the moment and chart a new path in our relations by opening our markets, scaling our industries, and creating predictable, competitive and connected value chains.
“Zimbabwe stands ready to work with Mozambique to turn opportunity into enterprise, corridors into commerce, and partnership into prosperity.”
Mozambican President Daniel Chapo said tourism and agriculture were key sectors that could shape development in both countries.
He underlined the importance of regional cooperation in tourism to maximise returns, promising to showcase the scenic attractions of Vilankulo when President Mnangagwa next visits Inhambane Province.
