The Governments of the Republic of Zambia and the United Republic of Tanzania have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening trade cooperation following the successful conclusion of the 2nd Bilateral Meeting on the Simplified Trade Regime held from 17th to 19th December 2025 in Tunduma, Tanzania.
The high level meeting brought together officials from both countries to assess progress made since the first bilateral engagement and to address challenges affecting smooth trade along the shared border corridor. The Joint Steering Committee meeting was co chaired by Dr. Hashil Abdallah, Permanent Secretary in Tanzania’s Ministry of Industry and Trade, and Dr. Simon Ng’ona, Director of Foreign Trade in Zambia’s Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry.
Discussions focused on improving the implementation of the Simplified Trade Regime, a framework designed to support small scale cross border traders who account for about 80 percent of Africa’s trade transactions. Both governments acknowledged the critical role these traders play in sustaining livelihoods and driving grassroots economic activity.
Key resolutions from the meeting included commitments to clarify implementation timelines, streamline procedures among border agencies, and strengthen support mechanisms for small scale traders. These measures aim to reduce delays, lower transaction costs, and create a more predictable trading environment at the Zambia Tanzania border.
The Joint Steering Committee directed the Tanzania National Chambers of Commerce to operationalize the Trade Information Desk Officer by 28th December 2025. This move is expected to improve access to trade information and provide on the ground support to traders operating under the Simplified Trade Regime.
The Committee also tasked the Tanzania Revenue Authority and the Zambia Revenue Authority to fast track the completion of the Simplified Customs Document by 31st January 2026. This document is critical in easing customs clearance and ensuring that traders benefit fully from the regime.
Additional directives included the allocation of dedicated market space for Zambian businesses on the Tanzanian side and a joint investigation into challenges faced by small scale cross border traders. These steps are intended to improve working conditions for traders and strengthen trust between border communities.
The outcomes of the Tunduma meeting underline the importance both governments place on trade facilitation, regional integration, and inclusive economic growth. The Simplified Trade Regime continues to serve as a key instrument in promoting resilience at community level and expanding opportunities for small businesses.
With these agreements in place, Zambia and Tanzania are expected to see increased cross border trade, stronger economic cooperation, and a more supportive business environment for small scale traders who rely on the shared corridor for their livelihoods.