By Nevanji Munyaradzi Chiondegwa
BULAWAYO – His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa officially opened the 2024 ZimTrade Annual Exporters’ Conference in Bulawayo today, challenging businesses to seize global market opportunities and contribute to the nation’s Vision 2030. The conference, themed “Qala, Tanga, Start,” has been expanded to a week-long event and relocated to Bulawayo, a move President Mnangagwa highlighted as aligning with “my Government’s policy on devolution and quest to promote Bulawayo as a premier conferencing destination.”
Emphasizing the importance of the conference, President Mnangagwa stated, “the rebranding and expansion…demonstrates your collective determination to scale up the profile of this forum,” adding that the broadened scope provides “a platform for exporters and policy-makers to discuss pertinent issues affecting exports.” He expressed confidence that the discussions would be beneficial in “sharpening stakeholders perspectives with regards to promoting country brands; navigating logistical challenges; and trade finance solutions for exporters.”
President Mnangagwa commended ZimTrade for increasing exports, noting a 1.8% rise to US$4.56 billion between January and August 2024 compared to the same period last year. He attributed this growth to gains in horticulture and value-added exports. However, he challenged businesses to diversify and innovate. “Going forward we want to see more of you becoming competitive in other demanding and strategic areas,” he urged, adding, “You should move with speed to diversify and improve your product portfolio, so that it remains relevant and competitive.”
Highlighting the importance of research and development, President Mnangagwa referenced the establishment of Innovation Hubs at state universities, stating they “have the potential to help enhance the quality of our exports.” He also emphasized the need for reliable supply chains: “be mindful of the need to ensure that you are able to fully cater for the demand of your products and services, that way, guaranteeing that there are no stock outs.”
President Mnangagwa reiterated the government’s commitment to modernizing transport infrastructure and promoting renewable energy. He also mentioned the upcoming pilot of the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority’s Electronic Single Window System, explaining it “will reduce bureaucracy, as well as enhance efficient clearance of goods.”
Addressing regional trade, President Mnangagwa spoke about Zimbabwe’s SADC chairmanship and the AfCFTA, stating, “This new Continental framework presents us with opportunities to actively shape the future of regional trade.” He applauded Afreximbank’s support for intra-African trade.
President Mnangagwa concluded by inviting international guests to explore Zimbabwe’s tourist attractions and urging participation in Expo 2025 Osaka. He emphasized, “Let us work together, to make this a resounding success.” He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to open trade, stating, “Let us harness the power of trade as a force for driving economic growth, fostering social development, as well as building bridges of peace and understanding between nations.”
Recent Comments