The governments of South Africa and Botswana have committed to strengthening economic ties between the two countries and reducing barriers that impede the free flow of goods.

During a meeting between Trade, Industry and Competition Deputy Minister Zuko Godlimpi and Botswana Trade and Industry Minister Mmusi Kgafela, the officials committed to establish a bilateral working group to resolve challenges for a more fair and open trading environment.

The officials discussed the promotion of trade and investment and committed to address the key challenges hindering the full potential of economic cooperation between South Africa and Botswana – which include non-tariff barriers, regulatory obstacles and market access issues.

Kgafela and Godlimpi also committed to improve communication between the two countries and advance beneficial investment opportunities in manufacturing, agriculture, transport and other service sectors.

Both officials emphasised the importance of simplifying trade processes and expressed optimism about the future of the economic partnership between South Africa and Botswana.