Consumer Unity Trust Society (CUTS) has urged government to come up with strategies that will ensure that Zambia benefits from the launched Africa Continental Free Trade Area.
Speaking in an interview with Money FM News, CUTS Programs Coordinator Ishmael Zulu has further called on government ministries such as the Ministry of Finance, Tourism, Commerce and Agriculture to work together and explore the markets on the continent.
Zulu said the launch of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area offers Zambia distinctive trade opportunities because it is coming at a time when the country’s economy has not been performing well.
“For Zambia the trade pact presents a unique opportunity business opportunity considering the economic situation in the country right now, the opening of borders presents Zambia an opportunity to accesses markets within the African continent,” Zulu said.
He suggests that all Zambia needs to do is to ensure that it accesses the markets on the continent with the aim of recovering the ailing economy.
“It is important that all key government ministries work together and ensure that trade within Africa contributes to the recovery of the economy,” He noted.
Zulu further says the launch of the agreement also presents Africa with unique trade opportunities especially that there has been low intra Africa activities