The governments of Malawi and Zambia have signed a mutual recognition agreement on conformity assessment, a development Ministry of Trade and Industry says is a key milestone to boost cross-border trade.
Minister of Industry and Trade Vitumbiko Mumba and his Zambian counterpart Reuben Mtolo Phiri signed the agreement in Lusaka, Zambia on Monday.
Speaking during the event, Mumba said the agreement will promote efficiency, trust and seamless trade between the two countries by mutually recognising conformity assessment processes.
“This agreement is more than trade facilitation. It is about strengthening trust between our national quality institutions, building confidence in standards and laying a strong foundation for industrial growth, competitiveness and consumer protection,” he said.
agreement documents. | Innocent Manda, Mana
Mumba said through the agreement, Malawi Revenue Authority will realise the aspirations of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by promoting harmonised trade systems that reduce costs, increase efficiency and encourage the free flow of goods.
“This agreement is a direct contribution to AfCFTA goals as it reduces costs, increases efficiency and enables free movement of goods and services across borders,” he said.
Mumba said the agreement shows that the two countries are serious about regional integration to improve livelihoods and strengthen economies of the two countries.
In his remarks, Mtolo Phiri said MRA will help farmers, traders and consumers benefit from faster and less costly trade processes.
“This agreement creates real opportunities for our farmers and traders by reducing trade barriers, saving costs and opening markets for our agricultural produce,” he said.
Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa secretary general Chileshe Kapwepwe assured Malawi and Zambia of continued technical support to ensure the agreement is effectively implemented and sustained beyond donor assistance.
“I urge both governments to create effective implementation strategies so that this agreement remains operational and beneficial long after external support has ended,” she said.
The agreement, supported by the 21-member Comesa in collaboration with the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa and funded by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, covers maize, groundnuts, beans, rice, soybeans and sorghum.
