ZIMBABWE’S exports have increased to US$4,56 billion during the period January to August 2024, up by 1,8% from the US$4,48 billion recorded during the same period last year, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has said.
Officially opening of the Exporters’ Conference in Bulawayo yesterday held under the theme: Qala, Tanga, Start, Mnangagwa said the growth benefited from gains in horticulture and value-added exports, which increased by 5,2% and 2,3%, respectively.
“Our exports have increased to US$4,56 billion during the period January to August 2024, up 1,8% from the US$4,48 billion recorded during the same period last year.
“The growth benefited from gains in horticulture and value-added exports, which increased by 5,2% and 2,3%, respectively. This is testament of the resilience, determination and unwavering commitment by our people to attain the vision, economic growth, and prosperity we deserve as a country,” he said.
Mnangagwa said the government remained committed to addressing non-tariff barriers that hinder trade.
“Meanwhile, the need to facilitate cross-border commerce and ensure that the Sadc [Southern African Development Community] and Comesa [Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa] regional economic communities serve as engines of global economic growth remains top priority,” he said.
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“In this regard, the new electronic single window system adopted by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority is set to be piloted within the next few weeks.
“This will reduce bureaucracy as well as enhance efficiency as well as enhance efficient clearance of goods at country’s port of entry.”
He also challenged local industries, which were not yet exporting, to get started and make bold decisions to seize the numerous opportunities offered by global markets.
“More so, because exports of goods and services serve as a catalyst for vibrant industrialisation and socio-economic development, we must leverage our country’s unique resources, skills, and expertise to produce Zimbabwean and African products for the international markets,” he said.
“You should move with speed to diversify and improve your product portfolio so that it remains relevant and competitive in line with the level of global technological advancement globally.
“The African Continental Free Trade Area is indeed a game-changer for intra-African trade, and Zimbabwe should position itself to capitalise on this opportunity.”