Zambia and Tanzania have reaffirmed their commitment to boosting bilateral trade, investment and strategic partnerships through enhanced business-to-business engagements and joint exploration of investment opportunities.

Last week, the two sister countries convened for the Tanzania-Zambia Business Forum which took place at the Zambia Development Agency in Lusaka.

The forum, co-hosted by the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry and the Zambia Development Agency, brought together senior Government Officials, captains of industry, and business delegations from both countries to explore partnerships in manufacturing, agriculture, transport and logistics.Government commits to investor-friendly environment.

Delivering her welcoming remarks, Permanent Secretary for Trade and commerce, in the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry Lillian S. Bwalya, said the forum reflected the two countries’ shared commitment to strengthening commercial relations and driving economic growth.

The Permanent Secretary noted that Government continues to implement significant reforms aimed at improving the business environment, including simplifying business registration processes, enhancing the regulatory framework and increasing access to finance to position Zambia as one of Africa’s most attractive investment destinations.

She also emphasized the importance of regional integration and intra African trade, noting that initiatives such as the revitalisation of the Tanzania Zambia Railway (TAZARA) will significantly improve connectivity, facilitate trade and strengthen economic cooperation between the two countries.

Meanwhile, Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) Director General Albert Halwampa said there is significant potential to expand trade and investment flows between Zambia and Tanzania. He expressed confidence that enhanced collaboration between businesses from the two countries would contribute to increased trade volumes and support Africa’s broader integration agenda under the Africa Continental free Area (AfCFTA).

Mr. Halwampa also said forums such as the Tanzania-Zambia Business Forum provide a vital platform for strengthening commercial partnerships and unlocking new opportunities for economic growth and prosperity in both nations.

The Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry remains committed to promoting policies and partnerships that foster increased trade, investment and shared prosperity for the people of Zambia and Tanzania.