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Tanzania and Zambia have reaffirmed their commitment to removing barriers to trade, signaling a new phase in regional economic integration.
The bilateral talks, held this week at a high-level meeting, focused on addressing long-standing challenges such as Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs) and Technical Barriers to Trade (TBTs), which continue to slow cross-border commerce between the two countries.
Dr. Hashil Abdallah, Tanzania’s Permanent Secretary for Industry and Trade, described the discussions as a milestone for regional trade. “Out of the more than 40 barriers previously identified, over 30 have now been resolved. The remaining ten are scheduled to be eliminated by December this year,” he said. He highlighted improvements at the Tunduma border, which have already eased congestion for trucks and traders, pointing to the tangible benefits of coordinated action.
Zambian officials, led by Permanent Secretary Lillian Bwalya, emphasized progress on infrastructure and operational efficiency. The Kasese–Zombe One-Stop Border Post (OSBP) has been fully activated, and the TAZARA Railway, which links Dar es Salaam with Zambia’s Copperbelt region, is being rehabilitated to ensure smoother transport of goods. Both sides also reported that customs integration between the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) and Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) is now operational, with plans for additional facilities such as truck parking yards to be completed by September 2026.
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Beyond these immediate measures, the meeting reflected broader ambitions under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which seeks to create Africa’s largest single market. By harmonizing regulations, streamlining customs procedures, and investing in transport infrastructure, Tanzania and Zambia aim to increase trade flows, reduce costs, and strengthen their role in regional supply chains.
Trade experts say that the reforms will benefit not only governments but also small and medium-sized enterprises that rely on cross-border commerce. Easing NTBs and improving logistics will help exporters of agricultural products, manufactured goods, and mining equipment move faster and more efficiently. Observers also note that the initiative could serve as a model for other Southern African Development Community countries, boosting regional competitiveness and economic resilience (SADC).
The renewed commitment from both nations demonstrates a shared understanding that the removal of trade barriers is not just a technical issue but a key driver of economic growth, investment, and job creation. With continuous monitoring and follow-up reviews already scheduled, Tanzania and Zambia are setting the stage for a more integrated and prosperous Southern Africa.
