Boosting Regional Trade: Nacala Development Management Committee Meeting

The Nacala Development Management Committee (NDMC) meeting in Lilongwe presents a crucial opportunity for Malawi, Zambia, and Tanzania to advance regional trade and address key barriers. Secretary for Transport and Public Works David Mzandu emphasized the need to build on the progress made since the signing of the Nacala Development Corridor Agreement, the Tripartite Road Transport Agreement, and the Tripartite Rail Transport Agreement.


Notable achievements include the harmonization of trade and transport regulations, collaboration to establish an Nacala Development Committee secretariat in Maputo, Mozambique, and efforts to enhance trade efficiency, reduce costs, and promote economic competitiveness among member states. However, challenges persist, including bureaucratic delays, inconsistent customs procedures, and infrastructure gaps, which hinder the seamless movement of goods along the corridor.



The meeting also aims to discuss the sustainability of the corridor beyond donor support, with the World Bank's Southern Africa Trade and Connectivity Project playing a significant role in financing trade facilitation efforts. Mzandu warned that external funding will not be available indefinitely, urging member states to institutionalize trade reforms and infrastructure development for long-term success.


Mozambique's Permanent Secretary for Ministry of Transport and Public Works, Ambrosio Aldofo Sitoe, highlighted the importance of simplifying and expediting clearing services and targeting rail transport to enhance regional trade. The ultimate goal is to achieve rapid and safer commercial transactions and transportation of people and goods to and from neighboring countries.

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