ZIMBABWE and ZAMBIA must move from simple trade ties to joint industrialisation, ZimTrade chief executive Allan Majuru said at the Zimbabwe–Zambia Business Forum. He called on Zimbabwe and Zambia to focus on building industries together. The goal is to create value, not just move products across the border. This shift matters for jobs, exports and long-term growth.

First, the two countries already trade steadily. Zambia is one of Zimbabwe’s top export markets. Trade grew quickly from US$60 million in 2021 to about US$145 million last year. That rise shows there is demand. However, Majuru says demand alone is not enough. Zimbabwe and Zambia must add value before goods leave their factories.

Next, the Common Agro-Industrial Park, or CAIP, is central to the plan. The CAIP builds on a 2021 memorandum of understanding. It aims to develop shared agro-processing capacity. The park targets cotton, wheat, rice, soya, sugar, livestock products and horticulture. The project has support from Comesa and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa. It also aims to strengthen value chains across both countries.

In addition, the Lake Kariba Blue Economy Strategy shows how shared assets can drive growth. The plan focuses on aquaculture, fisheries, tourism and renewable energy around Lake Kariba. It has a 10-year, US$35 million design. The initiative aims to benefit about 3.5 million people who depend on the lake. Zimbabwe and Zambia share the lake. Thus they also share the risks and rewards of its development.

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Industrialisation will require more than plans. It will need joint investment. It will need clear project governance. It will need private sector engagement. ZimTrade and Zambia Development Agency leaders urged stakeholders to turn promises into business deals. They want concrete joint ventures and measurable outcomes. Without that, talks will remain only words.

There are clear economic benefits. Local processing raises export earnings. It creates factory jobs. It supports small and medium suppliers. It expands tax bases. It also reduces vulnerability to commodity price swings. For both Zimbabwe and Zambia, this could mean steadier revenue and more predictable growth.

However, there are risks to manage. First, infrastructure must improve. Reliable power and transport are essential. Second, skills and technical capacity need strengthening. Both governments must invest in training. Third, finance must be available for project development. Public and private finance must align to support large processing plants.

To manage these risks, the two countries should set phased targets. First, identify priority projects with quick wins. Next, commit public incentives tied to performance. Then, mobilise regional and international financiers. In addition, both governments should harmonise regulations that affect cross-border manufacturing. This means smoother customs, aligned standards and coordinated trade rules.

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Furthermore, local content must be a priority. Both Zimbabwe and Zambia should set rules that ensure local suppliers benefit. This will broaden the base of firms that gain from industrial projects. It will also spread income and reduce economic inequality in border regions.

Private firms must play a role. Investors should form joint ventures that combine local knowledge with technical expertise. They should also adopt modern processing technologies to keep costs competitive. Finally, business chambers and trade agencies should monitor progress and report publicly each year. That will build accountability and trust.

In conclusion, the call for Zimbabwe and Zambia to move beyond trade is timely. Both countries have the assets needed for shared industrial growth. They also face common constraints that are easier to solve together. If Zimbabwe and Zambia implement focused plans, prioritise investments and ensure strong governance, they can turn a rising trade relationship into a durable industrial partnership. The result will be more jobs, higher exports and greater resilience for both economies.

Source The Herald Online