Government says informal cross border traders should be recognized as a measure of promoting economic growth in the country.
Commerce, Trade and Industry Minister, Felix Mutati, said cross border traders must be given recognition because they play an important role in the development of regional trade.
Mr. Mutati said this when he officially opened the second Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa, COMESA, forum dubbed trading for peace in Lusaka today.
He said government will this year construct new border infrastructure at Kasumbalesa border post to accommodate informal cross border traders.
Mr. Mutati noted that informal cross border traders help propel economic growth in the region as they account for over 30 per cent of the total annual trade earnings.
Earlier, COMESA Secretary General, Sindiso Ngwenya, said the trading for peace project will continue aiming at harnessing trade potential in the region.
Mr. Ngwenya said this will contribute to peace building and poverty reduction in the region.
ZANIS/CM/ENDS/SJK.
Excellent point Mr. Mutati. This observation is very true. Regional trade is the is key to the economic stability of all African countries.
I totally agree.Esspecialy in country like Zambia that are just developing.Good point,at least some pipo are thinking in zambia.
No this is not good enough. If these traders were selling Zambian goods, then fine. We would be getting some forex. But generally these traders are importers not exporters of Zambian stuff. They are always looking for dollars, rand or pulas. We need to manufacture or produce more so much we can create more employment and gain more forex from these traders in the region. Regional trade is good if you have net gain, not net loss as is the case now.