South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa met on Friday in Pretoria, where they discussed the significant trade imbalance between their two nations during the 4th Session of the South Africa-Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission (BNC).
In his opening remarks, President Ramaphosa highlighted the need for concrete action to increase the value of Zimbabwean exports to South Africa. He stated that while total bilateral trade has grown substantially, the flow of goods remains heavily weighted in South Africa’s favor.
“There is a significant trade imbalance in South Africa’s favour,” Ramaphosa said. “It is important that we work to narrow this gap. One way of doing so is for South Africa to import more from Zimbabwe.”
According to figures cited during the summit, total trade between the two countries reached R45.7 billion (approximately $2.4 billion USD) in 2022. Of this, South African exports to Zimbabwe accounted for R36.1 billion, while imports from Zimbabwe totaled R9.6 billion. The goods South Africa exports are primarily value-added and manufactured products, whereas its imports from Zimbabwe largely consist of primary commodities.
President Mnangagwa, in his address, acknowledged the trade figures and reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s commitment to strengthening economic ties. He noted that the BNC provides a critical platform for addressing economic challenges and promoting mutual growth. Mnangagwa also called for increased South African investment in Zimbabwe, particularly in sectors such as mining, agriculture, and energy, to help boost his country’s productive capacity.
The BNC is the highest-level structured dialogue between the two countries, designed to facilitate cooperation across a range of government and economic sectors. The 4th session concluded with the signing of five new Memoranda of Understanding. The agreements cover cooperation in areas including labor and employment, social protection, women and youth empowerment, and sports and recreation.
Both leaders affirmed the historical and strategic relationship between their nations. Ramaphosa referenced the extensive network of existing bilateral agreements, now totaling over 40, as a foundation for deeper collaboration. The discussions also covered regional political and security matters, with both presidents reaffirming their commitment to stability within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
The commission concluded with a joint communiqué in which both governments committed to implementing the new agreements and resolving outstanding issues to further enhance bilateral trade and investment.
