Zambia and Tanzania are intensifying efforts to strengthen bilateral trade and economic cooperation as both countries seek to capitalise on opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area. At the latest Joint Trade Committee meeting, officials reaffirmed their commitment to removing non-tariff barriers, improving border operations and creating a more efficient trading environment for businesses operating across the two neighbouring countries.

The renewed commitment comes at a time when intra-African trade is gaining momentum under the AfCFTA, which aims to create the world’s largest free trade area by connecting markets across the continent. For land-linked economies such as Zambia, stronger regional trade partnerships are critical to reducing transport costs, diversifying exports and improving access to regional and international markets.

During the ministerial meeting, Zambia and Tanzania resolved seven long-standing trade issues and developed strategies to address several remaining challenges affecting cross-border commerce. Key agreements include harmonising fuel measurement standards, improving customs information exchange, removing transport permit fees, streamlining cargo documentation and enhancing operations at the strategic Nakonde–Tunduma One Stop Border Post. Zambia also agreed to lift restrictions on night-time cargo movement, a decision expected to significantly improve freight efficiency and reduce delays.

The reforms are expected to generate tangible economic benefits for businesses in both countries. Bilateral trade increased from approximately US$312 million in 2024 to US$349 million in 2025, representing an 11% rise. Trade experts believe the removal of remaining barriers could further accelerate this growth by lowering transaction costs, improving logistics and encouraging greater private sector participation in cross-border trade.

The strengthened partnership also reinforces the strategic importance of regional transport corridors linking Zambia to the Port of Dar es Salaam. Efficient transport infrastructure remains essential for Zambia’s mining sector, agricultural exports and manufacturing industries, particularly as global demand for critical minerals and processed agricultural products continues to increase.

Beyond bilateral trade, the agreement reflects a broader commitment to African economic integration. The AfCFTA seeks to boost intra-African trade, strengthen regional value chains and reduce dependence on external markets. By addressing practical trade bottlenecks, Zambia and Tanzania are demonstrating how regional cooperation can translate continental trade ambitions into measurable economic outcomes.

As Africa’s economic landscape continues to evolve, the success of partnerships such as this will be measured not only by higher trade volumes but also by their ability to create jobs, attract investment and improve the competitiveness of businesses across the region. For Zambia and Tanzania, the latest commitments mark another important step toward building a more integrated and resilient regional economy.