Centre for Trade Policy and Development (CTPD) has advised government to quickly start addressing barriers that affect the smooth operation of boosting trade and integration with other countries.
CTPD Executive Director Isaac Mwaipopo says there is need for government through the Ministry of Commerce Trade and Industry to step up its efforts and expedite the modalities on negotiations for the rectification of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Mr. Mwaipopo told ZANIS in an interview in Lusaka yesterday, that AfCFTA is a good initiative as it will enhance the trading capacity for many African countries inclusive of Zambia. He explained that Zambia has potential to accrue a lot of benefits by belonging to the AfCFTA as it will be able to economically integrate with other countries in the African continent.
Mr. Mwaipopo also disclosed that the country’s manufacturing industry has not performed well making the country to import more than it can export. He said to this effect the local manufacturing industry need to be revamped as the country position itself to take part in the AfCFTA. The CTPD Chief has also called for countries to address trade barriers, adding that each regional trading block and custom union has its on tariffs and rules of origin. Mr. Mwaipopo stated that this is why it is important for African
countries to work towards harmonising and addressing all barriers that affect the smooth facilitation of trade.
He explained that addressing these challenges will go a long way in improving border standards therefore making the continent attractive and competitive to the world market.
The objectives of the AfCFTA include the creation of a single Continental market for goods and services with the free movement of business persons and investment, Zambia is among the 54 African countries that is expected to ratify to the AfCFTA with the objective of creating a single, continental market for goods and services with the free movement of business persons and investment in order to expand intra-Africa trade and the improvement of the competitiveness of industries and enterprises.
What is Manufacturing? And What should Zambia focus on in revamping Manufacturing?
At times I wonder where and what the country’s strategists are doing?
I always say, Zambia is a country that should have a 100 year plan broken down into 5 yearly goals.
Where is Zambia’s think tank lol
When we talk, you hear some people saying we are scandalising Zambia from abroad.
Are we saying we are short of strategists who are concentrating on current developments. If yes, then are they the ones doing the constructions? Their job is to move on and strategise more not be told what to do most particularly on critical aspects such as this one.
CTPD did you get permission from charity before meeting this reporter. If not you will be locked up like your colleagues who were meeting the pastors.