By Karen Bvurere (Opinion)
ZIMBABWE, BEING a land-linked nation, possesses significant untapped potential for its exporters.
While geographical constraints like limited direct port access present challenges, the country’s membership in key regional trading blocs such as the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), provides a powerful strategic advantage.
These blocs are more than just associations, they are critical platforms that offer preferential trade terms, simplify customs procedures, and provide access to vast regional markets, all of which are essential for enhancing Zimbabwe’s export competitiveness.
Using regional blocs allows businesses to effectively circumvent logistical and tariff hurdles.
COMESA and SADC facilitate smoother and more cost-effective access to ports in neighbouring countries like Mozambique and South Africa through agreed-upon protocols.
The preferential tariff treatment and simplified customs procedures under these blocs substantially lower the overall cost of doing business, giving Zimbabwean exporters a distinct edge over their non-member counterparts.
The presence of simplified cross-border trade regimes and legal protections further encourages SMEs to venture into export markets, knowing their goods and investments are protected
COMESA, a 21-member trading bloc, is designed to foster economic integration by removing trade barriers.
For Zimbabwean exporters, this translates into a gateway to a regional market of over 540 million people with a substantial trade value.
The most significant benefit is the Free Trade Area (FTA), where goods originating from member states, including Zimbabwe, are exempt from tariffs.
This zero-tariff status makes Zimbabwean products more competitive and appealing to buyers across the bloc.
Furthermore, the COMESA Simplified Trade Regime (STR) is a game-changer for small-scale traders and SMEs.
It streamlines customs clearance and reduces the administrative burden for goods valued under US$2,000, effectively lowering the barrier to entry into the export market.
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) offers similar, yet distinct, benefits for Zimbabwean exporters.
The SADC Free Trade Area eliminates tariffs on approximately 85 percent of products among member states.
This a key element that helps lower export costs and significantly improves the competitiveness of Zimbabwean goods.
Beyond tariff reductions, SADC’s focus on regional cooperation is crucial for a landlocked country.
It supports infrastructure development and promotes initiatives like one-stop border posts, which are vital for reducing logistical delays and costs at border crossings.
SADC membership also provides Zimbabwe with strategic access to economically stronger neighbors, particularly South Africa.
This, combined with existing bilateral agreements, amplifies the opportunities available for local companies looking to expand their footprint.
To fully realise the benefits of these trading blocs, Zimbabwean companies must take proactive steps.
Firstly, it is crucial to improve awareness and knowledge of the specific trade benefits and compliance requirements of COMESA and SADC.
Secondly, businesses should actively utilize the simplified trade regimes for their small-scale exports to minimize costs and administrative burdens.
Collaborating with national trade promotion bodies like ZimTrade is a must for gaining market intelligence and receiving capacity-building support.
Furthermore, investing in product quality and standards is essential to meet the diverse requirements of regional and international markets.
Finally, engaging in regional infrastructure projects and actively exploring bilateral and multilateral agreements within these blocs will provide further avenues for tariff preferences and investment incentives.
