Rob Davies, South Africa’s minister of Trade and Industry, expressed his commitment to increase trade and trade imbalances with Zambia.

This comes two days prior to the minsters Outward Trade and Investment Mission to Lusaka from 24 to 25 July in which 22 South African companies will also partake.

“This mission will assist the department with contributing towards South African’s objectives of regional integration by strengthening economic relations between the two countries,” said Davies.

The mission aims to advance commitments made by the Heads of State of both countries during the state visit to South Africa by President Edgar Lungu last year. Both countries agreed to deepen bilateral trade and investment relations.

“Platforms of this nature afford us the opportunity to not only consolidate political ties but also to create the much-needed value-chains, skills and technology transfer and employment generation required to give effect to our economic ambitions, both in South Africa and Zambia,” adds Minister Davies.

The minister added that the mission will enable South African companies to interact with leading private sector entities from amongst others, agro-processing and agribusinesses.

“The mission will also present an ideal platform for South African companies who would like to export value-added products and services, and companies looking for joint-venture partnerships in Zambia,” he added.

The programme will comprised of a trade and investment seminar, business-to-business meetings, round-table discussions and sector-specific site visits.