STR a practical tool to cut barriers, formalize Trade - Zambia-DRC hold Trade talks as both Nations eye smoother borders

The Republic of Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo are accelerating efforts to implement the Simplified Trade Regime (STR), with both Governments describing it as a key driver for empowering small-scale cross-border traders, especially women and youth.

After more than seven years of bilateral engagement and negotiations, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo are now at the milestone of operationalising a transformative trade facilitation instrument.

Speaking during the official opening of the Technical Meeting, Chairperson Ms. Patricia Mwela, said the meeting aims to advance implementation of the STR between the two countries.  “Last February, DRC and Zambia met to advance this agenda,” Ms. Mwela said. 

The STR seeks to simplify clearance procedures for small-scale traders and ensure they benefit from preferential trade rates, a move designed to formalize cross-border trade and boost incomes.  “For Zambia, the new infrastructure at Kasumbalesa provides modern facilities for small-scale cross-border traders,” she added, urging participants to share perspectives and use collaboration to build a truly conducive trading environment.

Ms. Mwela added that the milestone reflects strengthened bilateral relations and a shared commitment to regional industrialisation. 

And Co-chairperson of the Technical Meeting Laurent Mbuyamba reaffirmed that the Congolese delegation comes with an open mind and is committed to implementing all major outstanding recommendations so the project can launch for the benefit of both countries.

In a speech delivered on behalf of Common Market for Eastern and southern Africa (COMESA) Secretary General, Dr. Christopher Onyango, Director Trade and Customs – COMESA Secretariat, stated that the Simplified Trade Regime (STR) is a practical tool designed to facilitate small-scale cross-border trade between member states, helping both Governments tackle unemployment and poverty.

By reducing administrative barriers, streamlining customs procedures, and providing a structured framework for small consignments, the STR has the potential to formalize trade, increase revenue collection for the two governments, and promote economic empowerment especially among women and youth.  “Our responsibility at the technical level, through this meeting, is to ensure the STR functions efficiently and transparently,” He said.

Meanwhile, Facilitating Inclusive, Resilient and Sustainable Trade (FIRST) Project, Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion and Programming Specialist Alex Lesa, said the project is proud to serve not only as a technical partner but as a champion of inclusive trade facilitation. Evidence from the FIRST Project, other initiatives, and official Government statistics shows that over 70 percent of small-scale cross-border traders are women and youth, for whom trade is a primary source of household income, food security, and economic resilience.

He reaffirmed the FIRST Project’s commitment to working with all stakeholders to support both Governments in ensuring the STR delivers efficient, transparent, and inclusive trade.

Issued by: 

Everness Nankala (Ms.)

Principal Public Relations Officer

Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry