Harare, (New Ziana) – ZimTrade, the country’s trade development and promotion agency, has said it opened up new market opportunities for Zimbabwean exporters in Botswana after a recent market survey it undertook to the neighbouring country.
A delegation of five Zimbabwean businesses in the Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) and hardware sectors visited Botswana to explore market opportunities, engage with potential buyers, and understand trade requirements as part of the business exploration survey it led.
The visit provided valuable insights into market trends and allowed participating companies to explore key sectors with high demand.
The businesses not only secured deals but also gained a better understanding of the steps necessary for Zimbabwean companies to export successfully to Botswana.
Botswana’s economy, driven by mining, agriculture, manufacturing, and services, offers numerous trade opportunities for Zimbabwean businesses.
The country’s stable business environment, supported by a strong regulatory framework and trade agreements, facilitates cross-border trade.
Zimtrade highlighted several sectors with growth potential, including agriculture and agro-processing, construction, manufacturing, textiles, and services.
Botswana has a growing demand for processed food products, fresh produce, livestock, and animal feed.
It said Zimbabwean businesses can capitalize on these opportunities by ensuring their products meet quality certification standards and comply with Botswana’s regulations.
ZimTrade offers guidance on market research, regulatory requirements, and product certification.
The trade development agency also assists businesses in establishing relationships with wholesalers, retailers, and distributors in Botswana.
Participating in trade fairs and business-to-business (B2B) matchmaking events can also help companies find potential partners in the region.
To facilitate trade between Zimbabwe and Botswana, the two countries have a trade agreement that allows goods produced in either country to enter the other without customs duties, provided they contain at least 25 percent local content.
Building on the success of this recent engagement, ZimTrade is preparing to lead a delegation of Zimbabwean companies to the Global Expo Botswana later this year.
This Expo offers a valuable opportunity for businesses to showcase their products, engage directly with potential buyers, and gain insights into market trends.
Companies interested in participating are encouraged to contact ZimTrade for further details.
New Ziana
