The private sector has thrown its support behind an export-driven industrialisation initiative, highlighting the strategic value of optimising existing trade agreements, particularly within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
A recent gathering in Harare, attended by key industry players, underscored the need to examine and refine current trade agreements as a key strategy for boosting industrialisation and export growth.
Industrialist Lesley Marange emphasized that Zimbabwe has an opportunity to tap into profitable markets within the SADC region and beyond, noting that the country’s current chairmanship of SADC offers a unique platform to raise awareness about potential market opportunities and drive economic growth.
SADC’s trade framework includes several key agreements designed to foster regional economic integration. Among these is the SADC Protocol on Trade, which forms the foundation for trade relations within the region, aiming to reduce tariffs and non-tariff barriers between member states.
The SADC Free Trade Area, launched in 2008, seeks to eliminate tariffs on most goods traded within the region, promoting the free movement of goods and encouraging intra-regional trade. Additionally, the SADC Trade in Services Protocol is focused on liberalizing trade in sectors such as finance, tourism, and transportation within the region.
Beyond SADC, Zimbabwe is a member of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Customs Union, established in 2009. While the process of forming the customs union has faced delays, it aims to harmonize external tariffs for all member countries, ensuring that imports from outside the union are subject to the same tariffs across the region.
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Zimbabwe is also a signatory to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement, which came into force in 2019. Although the country has requested a 15-year waiver to allow time for industrialisation before fully implementing all aspects of the agreement, AfCFTA presents significant potential for expanding Zimbabwe’s export markets across Africa.
The Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI) has been proactive in facilitating discussions around these trade agreements, recognising that their long-term benefits depend on active market diversification and increased production capacity.
Stuart Oxenford, Head of Trade and Investment at the British Embassy, stressed the importance of understanding and leveraging trade agreements to access vital, long-term markets. “Unpacking these agreements is essential for enabling industries to access strategic and sustainable markets,” he stated.
Economic analyst Namatai Maeresera highlighted industrialisation as a critical factor in positioning Zimbabwean companies to take full advantage of regional and international trade opportunities.
Echoing this sentiment, Wellington Dangarembizi, President of the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries Mashonaland Chamber, emphasized the importance of creating a forward-looking strategy that supports industrial growth, allowing local businesses to compete effectively in both regional and global markets.
Zimbabwe’s active participation in trade agreements like those within SADC, COMESA, and AfCFTA reflects its commitment to fostering a favourable business environment. By leveraging these agreements, the country aims to boost its export competitiveness, enhance industrial efficiency, and attract foreign investment.
“The private sector’s dedication to export-led growth is essential for sustainable development and positioning Zimbabwe as a regional economic leader,” concluded Maeresera.
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